Angella Dravid - I'm Happy for You
At this point in the cultural landscape, the third act trauma reveal has become synonymous with the structure of a solo stand-up hour. It's expected territory at this point. Deliciously and satisfyingly, in Angella Dravid’s I’m Happy For You, generational trauma is not just a side dish, but rather the full degustation. And it’s extremely joyous to watch.
If it sounds like a faux pas to find such delight in a show about generational abuse, Dravid fully recognises this. Her calming stage presence instils a trust between performer and audience, permitting us to laugh deeply at the dark stuff - and there is a lot of dark stuff to get through. Dravid salvages the truly horrible anecdotes that are peppered throughout with her effortlessly witty one-liners and an unmatched deadpan delivery, inviting the audience to feel relaxed in the presence of a professional.
Tragedy + time = a comedic match made in heaven here.
Reviewed by Maddison Verduci