Xavier Michelides has been part of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival for over ten years and has deservedly gained a number of loyal followers, including myself. Previous favourite shows include The Brain Whisperer, No Show (with Ben Russell) and Future World, which won him the MICF Golden Gibbo. These gems have made Xavier’s show part of my annual Comedy Festival pilgrimage. Now he is back for the latest instalment. So, c’mon, Lettuce Do This.
Xavier has an amazingly casual yet masterful stage presence. His talent has been honed on cruise ships and corporate events, alongside the numerous ‘straight’ comedy gigs. Alone on an empty stage, clad in a black t-shirt and jeans his easy-going style immediately disarms the audience.
We are then taken on a voyage that meanders from the absurd to plain silly, with good helpings of pure potty-mouthed jokes (and accompanying facial expressions).
The performance is witty and sharp. Childhood memories, adulthood opinions and dreamt up fantasies form Xavier’s world. Sketch and stand-up comedy are the backbone of how this world is recreated for the audience. On our journey through the evening, Xavier is a consummate host and tour guide. We are given deep, sometimes dark and disturbing glimpses into the workings of his mind.
Beware, however — trying to recount aspects of Xavier’s show is akin to trying to retell a dream; the complexity of it all gets lost in the translation. Other parts are simply disgusting or rude. Either way, as much as you may want to explain it to someone, it is better that they see it for themselves.
This is stand-up at its best.
– Duncan
Duncan was the most illegible bachelor in town, but times have changed, although he is still a purveyor of Melbourne’s surprising, quirky, and cultural events.
Xavier Michelides – Lettuce Do This runs until April 23, Monday – Saturday 7pm (55 mins) and Sundays at 6pm at Cooper’s Malthouse, Southbank. Purchase tickets now.
The venue is accessible.
Read The Plus Ones’ guide to MICF, and visit often to see all our reviews.
