In a comic tour de force, Samuel Barnett has the audience in the palms of his hands. We hang on his every word, as he changes tack, time and again. It is a triumphant monologue, written by Marcelo Dos Santos and directed by Matthew Xia.
The said performer, who assumes multiple character voices with aplomb, outlines how the central figure had never been in “a proper relationship”. That is until he met his perfect man and then he set about trying to kill him. The star of the show assumes the persona of a 36-year-old, who is a gay, neurotic comedian.
From the north of England, he has lived in London for a decade. He loves sex and talking dirty, but he hasn’t uttered the “L” word. Then he meets a buff American who takes his breath away, someone he feels he can never measure up to. A first date turns into a second and a third, and more. They flirt, but unlike the scene he is used to, in which intimacy is quickly on the menu, the American, who may be called Zac, doesn’t want to rush things.
The key character is incessantly apologising, but the American tells him not to. The latter is chill. The former is forever questioning himself. Zac attends one of the comedian’s shows and appreciates what he sees, and says so. But then comes the unexpected twist. The American has a very unusual ailment, which, while the central figure is understanding of, is also tempted to exploit.
He also seemingly can’t help himself and appears to do everything possible to self-sabotage. How will this all end? It looks like – badly. But to find out, you’ll simply have to attend the show … and I assure you that you won’t be disappointed.
Barnett’s patter, his delivery (including priceless facial expressions) and pacing are outstanding. Forever moving about the stage, he has a delightful, nervous energy about him that is instantly engaging and entertaining. Just him for 70 minutes flat, plus a microphone with a long cord, a mike stand and a black wooden stool.
Complete with mood lighting, a few deliberate blackouts and music stings, he weaves his tales of lust and finding Mr Right. He is the complete package, but of course it all starts with the whip smart writing, which is constantly taking unexpected turns. Into the verbiage comes the centrepiece’s parents and his lovers.
Feeling Afraid As If Something Terrible Is Going To Happen is a wickedly comedic production from the award winning producers of Fleabag and Baby Reindeer. Making its Australian premiere, in amongst the shocks and surprises is some choice language of a sexual nature. It makes for a wild ride and a riotous and richly rewarding time at the theatre. It is playing at Fairfax Studio, Arts Centre Melbourne until 1st February, 2025.
Alex First
Other reviews you might enjoy:
- You’re Being Dramatic (Theatre Works) – theatre review
- Lano & Woodley: Moby Dick (Comedy Theatre) – theatre review
- Bali (Last Great Hunt) – theatre review
Alex First is the editor of The Blurb. Alex is a Melbourne based journalist and communications specialist. He also contributes to The Blurb on film and theatre.