Denise Scott is back, and she’s shining brighter than ever.
She’s had more than a decade away from the world of solo stand-up, but you wouldn’t know it. ‘Tickety Boo’ is a smooth, clever offering from one of Australia’s favourite and most recognisable comics. It’s been a while, so there’s certainly plenty to talk about.
That’s the upside of a spell away from the stage as a comic – the material is ripe for the picking. . . Especially when you’ve been through breast cancer and have come out the other side.
’Tickety Boo’ – as the name suggests – is an example of Denise’s determination and optimism, particularly through her journey from being diagnosed with cancer, moving through treatment, and ultimately, surviving. Whether she’s detailing her obsession with adult colouring in books, explaining the procedure of a PillCam, or recounting listening to some riveting AM radio call-in stories, Denise is a total delight to watch.
She’s got the audience in the palm of her hand from the second she dances on to the stage – particularly on this night (1 April), as she uses Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s impending ‘Address To The Nation’, due to happen the second her show wraps up, as a springboard into her material. . . Much to the delight of the Comedy Theatre crowd.
What follows is a hysterical hour of anecdotes, some brilliant back-and-forth with willing audience members, and a little sprinkling of self-deprecation as Denise admits she’s handwritten her show in list form on a sheet of paper in order for her to remember the material.
It’s an honest and brilliant yet simple collection of stories that ultimately celebrate life. There’s plenty to be grateful for, plenty to appreciate, and plenty to laugh at. ‘Tickety Boo’ – and its fierce, strong, hilarious creator – are living proof of that.
