I will straight up admit to being biased about Zoe although, after this latest show, I don’t think I have to justify myself any more.
Entry Level Human is a masterclass of how to write, construct, and perform an Edinburgh show, or any show in fact. It’s a perfect piece, with a delightful narrative arc which takes you on a full circle of comedic enchantment.
From drunken Glaswegian flies trying to escape Zoe’s eagle eye within the confines of her flat to near-death experiences while scuba diving with her wife. All of life is here, including those human beings that we love to hate. Zoe expresses what most of us really think – it’s our collective consciences thinking out loud and this is her winning formula.
Great comedy draws on the familiar and the best comedians have an observational skill that we relate to. How you combine this into a world-class performance is where it all moves to the next level. Only Zoe could commit a theatrical ‘crime’ and perform with her back to the audience and get away with it. In that moment we don’t need to look at her, but listen. She knows that and it works.
Entry Level Human is an exploration of the behaviour, prejudices and actions of human beings in all their selfish, unseeing, unconscious state. Zoe takes this, describes it and simply feeds it back to us combined with her unique physicality and impeccable comic timing.
Zoe always has had great material and there have been many memorable moments since she won the Funny Women Awards in 2004. No apologies for the reminder here – we’re proud as punch and Zoe is a fantastic role model for upcoming comedians regardless of gender.
I know I am not saying much here. No need. Go see. The main run is sold out but there are extra shows.
★★★★★
Zoe Lyons: Entry Level Human is at 17:45 at the Gilded Balloon Teviot, the Dining Room until 26th August. For tickets and more information click here!
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