Fresh off receiving a nomination for Most Outstanding Show, Frankie McNair bounds onto the stage, smashing through the tense feeling floating above the crowd thanks to the mandatory but vital content warning that greets the audience as they enter the room.
Full of warmth and chaotic energy, beaming with a wide grin, McNair artfully tackles many a tough topic in 'Huge Ass Mindset', the trickiest being the reason for that huge ass content warning: child sexual abuse.
It’s hugely important to flag that this is a key topic of the show up front, as it is one which not everyone might feel comfortable hearing jokes about (and yes, there are jokes aplenty, jokes in ways that I never imagined there could be) but don’t let the heavy content put you off, lest you miss out on a show that is equal parts empowering, important and downright silly.
McNair speaks from the heart at times in this raw hour of stand-up, something that they flag fans might not expect, having previously won audiences over in kooky character roles. But McNair is also talented at spinning engaging yarns, cleverly twisting together key information and jokes to move the show forward by sharing little morsels at gently before diving forth into a cascade of intensity towards the end of the show.
The pacing and structure of 'Huge Ass Mindset' are well-placed to keep the audience intrigued and involved in the show throughout. While the introduction of an unhinged googly-eyed film noir character just over halfway through the show might feel a little out of place at the time, the quirky move works to provide some pre-emptive relief before the show heads into a full-on but worthwhile finale.
McNair has created a show that in many ways shouldn’t need to exist, but given the world we live in and the horrors we’re faced with, shows like this are necessary and important.
Shows that discuss topics that are considered taboo are vital for breaking down barriers. Comedy done well can go to the darkest of places and pull people together in a shared catharsis. McNair does this and then some, in a wonderfully twisted way. 'Huge Ass Mindset' is a joy, a celebration of connection and community, and a slap in the face to boot.
Proceed with caution if you need, but if you’re in a place for it, 'Huge Ass Mindset' is a show that has a lot to give in laughs and heart.
