September 25th Review
Komedia’s basement theatre hosted another edition of Comic Boom, Jill Edwards’s flagship new-comedy showcase.
It’s a monthly fixture that thrives on unpredictability, a smorgasbord of fresh voices, bold ideas and one headline act to anchor the evening.
The bill was packed with variety, with hilarious host Matthew Ali guiding the night with warmth, charm, and an instinct for keeping the energy alive between acts.
The evening opened with Natalie Bryce, whose sharp, relatable observations immediately set the tone. She has a natural, conversational style that draws the audience in, making it feel less like a performance and more like a chat with a very funny friend. Following her was Oro Rose, whose quirky delivery and offbeat humour made for an engaging and unpredictable set. Their playful presence and unexpected punchlines kept the crowd laughing and guessing.
Caitriona Dowden brought a different energy, mixing wry storytelling with a dry wit that resonated well with the Brighton audience. Her material, rooted in everyday absurdities, had a subtle edge that rewarded listeners who were paying close attention. She was followed by Shabnah Ratnarajah, (her first appearance at Comic Boom) who stood out with bold, unapologetic comedy. Tackling cultural and social themes with a sharp perspective, she balanced pointed commentary with laugh-out-loud humour, leaving a strong impression.
The second half of the night kicked off with Rachel Quinn, whose set combined clever writing with a warm, approachable presence. She was adept at finding comedy in the small details of life, and her timing kept the laughter rolling. David James followed, bringing the kind of professional polish that only experience can deliver. His ease on stage and quick rapport with the audience made him a highlight, demonstrating why he’s such a reliable crowd-pleaser.
Finally, the headliner, Nick Everritt, closed the night on a high. With razor-sharp material, smart observations, and the confidence of a comic at the top of his game, Everritt had the audience in stitches from start to finish. His command of the room was undeniable, and his set tied the evening together with a sense of seasoned authority.
Comic Boom showcased a perfect balance: exciting new voices alongside established names, all in the intimate yet buzzing setting of Komedia’s downstairs club. It was a night of variety, big laughs, and proof that Brighton’s comedy scene is thriving. You can also enjoy delicious light bites and reasonably priced drinks from the bar! Highly recommended…
The next show is Thursday 23rd October. As part of October UNPACKED you can receive £8 concession price when quoting October Unpacked on booking.
