Abby Howells is a NZ comedian best known for being on Taskmaster NZ and some viral online videos. Now, in her 60-minute solo show, Welcome To My Dream, she’s bringing her unique brand of comedy to Melbourne Comedy Fest. The show’s namesake is its opening song – a short, whimsical 1960s tune by Tiny Tim – the singer famed for THAT quirky cover of Tiptoe Through The Tulips! It’s an interesting choice that sets the pace and is a reference that Abby brings back to the audience during the show.
On that note, this show is sprinkled with quite a few recurring references and themes. These are a highlight of the show. Abby’s callbacks are so well-timed throughout the hour, often totally unexpected but always funny. It makes it the kind of show where you feel like you have in-jokes with the comedian.
Abby Howells comedian. Image credit: Michelle Hyslop.
Welcome To My Dream is mostly based on Abby’s observations of her life after fame since going viral and being on TV. This includes the funny and awkward events around being a public figure. Also talks about her work in improv, her enemies and getting into comedy, as well as some vulnerable moments. It’s like a hilarious, introspective hour as Abby brings the audience into her world through her experiences.
I adored Abby’s mention of some very niche, specific figures and the tributes to some special kings of pop music. I also really appreciated the small comments Abby threw in specifically for her Melbourne audience!
Abby’s comedy is witty, fun and a little bit offbeat. She is a smooth storyteller and covers a variety of themes ranging from her hilariously heated feud with NZ’s Puzzling World, honest experiences as an autistic person, a vulnerable breakup story and a hopeful love story. Her witty observations poke fun at the world around her, as well as herself.
What makes this show special is the way Abby comfortably explores a range of topics on stage with lots of comedic interjections and humorous descriptions. Despite getting into emotional territory, Abby steers her stories towards hope and closes the show on an uplifting note.
Abby Howells’ Welcome To My Dream is a must-watch for anyone who wants good, witty comedy with heart.
PS: Abby may feel like Tiny Tim, but from where I was sitting in the audience, it’s clear she’s an Adam Lambert!
Rating: 5/5 stars ★★★★★
– Maria
Maria Konidaris is a freelance writer and casual tour guide living between Melbourne and Greece. When she’s not getting emotional during comedy shows and arts events, she can be found gallivanting around city libraries or dodging winter on a Greek island beach.
“Welcome To My Dream” runs 27 March 2025 – 20 April 2025 at Melbourne Town Hall. Book tickets here.
The venue is accessible.
