Rhys Mathewson vs the World - Comedy Festival Review

Rhys Mathewson vs the World - Comedy Festival Review

Man, if I'd been this talented at 21 years old, the world would so have been my oyster.

Taking to a packed out Basement Studio in Auckland for his final night, it's clear Mathewson's already won the festival fight for crowds. And there's just something about his enthusiasm on stage which is totally infectious.

This year's show is about Rhys becoming a little less self centred and a bit more aware as he bids farewell to the teenage years and enters adulthood at 21. I don't think I know (or knew of) any 20 something who didn't suddenly realise there is a world around them when they're thrust into the wider universe.

But after an intro which sees Rhys flounce about the stage in a boxing outfit, it takes him a wee while to get to the show - mainly, because he's so damn interested in the audience and the front row.

This is perhaps my only criticism of Rhys' show (and it's such a minor niggle) - he gets easily distracted by what's around him and in the audience very occasionally rather than fully concentrating on his show in hand. But you can forgive someone who has such an appealing stage presence and who spends the majority of his (albeit brief) time on stage, having so much damn fun.

This year's show sees Rhys tackle the world around us - taking on the planet in seven rounds in rounds about relationships, the economy, religion and people is no mean feat but once again, despite his young age and showing off the comedy prowess of a pro who's been on the circuit for most of his life, he sucks you into a world of fun, frivolity and occasional filth.

Yet, it's due to self effacing charm, brilliant audience banter and boyish enthusiasm that this show is just so much damn fun; there's so many terrifying visuals in this as well - Rhys as Richard Gere in an Officer and A Gentleman, and a topless moment to name but two.

Sure, occasionally, Rhys distracts himself on his comedy journey, but I'm prepared to forgive him for it as it's only ever because of his comedy chops; there's always something hilarious and deftly smart waiting to pour forth from under the curls and cheeky grin.

Rhys Mathewson is already one of our comedy treasures; proof that young age is no barrier to being hilarious and that New Zealand breeds some of the best live stand up comedians - let's just pray he stays with us for as long as he can because he's already heading toward legendary status.