Fringe review: ALFIE PACKHAM - MY GIFT TO YOU, Underbelly
Alfie Packham: My Gift to You is a comedy show that doesn’t just entertain—it takes you on an emotional rollercoaster, blending laughter with moments of genuine poignancy. Alfie Packham’s energy and warmth, quickly reveals a depth to his story that’s both surprising and impactful. From wrestling with assumptions about his ethnicity to navigating the ups and downs of life, Packham's performance is as thought-provoking as it is hilarious.
Packham’s ability to evoke such a wide range of emotions is what sets this show apart. He makes you laugh, then brings you to the verge of tears, only to make you laugh again. It’s a testament to his skill as a comedian and storyteller that he can navigate these shifts so seamlessly. The show is clearly well-crafted, with a strong narrative arc, yet Packham’s delivery is so spontaneous and organic that it feels like he’s sharing these stories with you for the first time.
At the heart of the show is Packham’s reflection on reaching 30 and looking back at his 20s as the incredible gift they were. He keeps pulling out gifts from his mother, each one symbolising a memory or a lesson from the extra eight years he had with her. Whether he’s recounting their wicked adventures, like the time someone stole his mother’s cat, or revealing his addiction to Cherry Pepsi, Packham’s anecdotes are filled with warmth, humour, and a touch of melancholy.
The interaction with the audience is another highlight. Packham engages with the crowd in a way that feels genuine and inviting, making everyone feel included without any fear of sitting in the front row. His ability to balance humour with pathos creates a strong connection, leaving the audience both entertained and deeply moved.
From the outset, My Gift to You tackles some heavy and potentially triggering issues, but that’s part of what makes it so powerful. Comedy, when done well, is a brilliant way to address awkward topics and inequalities, ensuring that we continue to talk about them.
**** Four stars
Reviewed by: Beatriz Do O
Alfie Packham: My Gift to You plays at Underbelly Bristo Square until 26 Aug, with further info here.