Geraldine Hickey: Of Course We've Got Horses | Edinburgh Fringe comedy review

Geraldine Hickey: Of Course We've Got Horses

Edinburgh Fringe comedy review

The story of Geraldine Hickey’s recent wedding is joyful but also so soft as to be forgettable, saved only by an unaffected low-key delivery that’s quietly engaging.

There are very few comedians who could tell you they own not one but THREE houses and not be run out of town, so it’s testament to Hickey’s likability that we can just about not hate her for this. Despite her mini-property empire - and the titular horses - she also manages to be relatable with these happy dispatches from a settled domestic life.

Her wedding is given extra importance as Australia only legalised same-sex marriage five years ago following a divisive plebiscite which brought out the worst bigotry in the name of so-called ‘legitimate’ debate, baggage that’s much less significant when she tells this story in the UK. There are also references to quite a few Australian comedy stars who had roles in the ceremony, which might ring a bell with hardcore Fringe goers but would go over the heads of most, such as Nath Valvo and Tina Del Twist.

What does translate without difficulty, though, is the celebratory nature of the day, building up to her arrival at the alter in memorable style.

She describes her natty suit with reference to Say Yes To The Dress – the format of which is described rather too literally – and is very proud of her lawnmowing skills in clearing the patch of ground next to their beach house. This is the level of excitement we’re dealing with. The genteel chat also covers her love of birdwatching, and her delight at encountering orange-bellied parrots.

It seems unexpected - but welcome - when an actual joke emerges, for this is a show of warm, positive vibes more than LOL punchlines. Hickey is the stand-up equivalent of an early Sunday evening period drama, with delightful bucolic landscapes and pleasing characters, if light on adventure.

• Geraldine Hickey: Of Course We've Got Horses is on at Soho Theatre in London from Tuesday to Saturday this week.

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Review date: 28 Aug 2023
Reviewed by: Steve Bennett
Reviewed at: Assembly George Square