Many performers are attempting to execute a show like Greta Titelman’s Exquisite Lies, its mishmash of musical comedy, character work and audience participation being the comedy sub-category du jour. With acts like Catherine Cohen, Courtney Pauroso and Gillian Cosgriff sitting under the umbrella, this American comic/actor’s debut hour is yet another example of how to nail the format.

Titelman offers a real masterclass in storytelling, distilling the personal plight of being an imperfect millennial woman through a selection of formative tales, from a short stint at boarding school to losing her mother to cancer. Catchy songs (particularly one about a problematic ex-lover at college) and flawless delivery of an airtight script left the room no choice but to sit amenably in the palm of her hand. 

Utilising the full parameters of her stage, singing and strutting her way around, sometimes onto an audience member’s lap, Titelman serves up show[wo]manship by the bucketload. Her delivery is constantly dynamic, employing an exasperated breathy-ness, akin to that of an old Hollywood actress, and slick lighting and sound cues to make her re-enactments of mundane or embarrassing moments feel as melodramatic as a soundstage musical. 

The show’s parting moments feel slightly less polished, as Titelman tries to imply the entire hour has been her rambling to a friend (us) over a drink. But these final few seconds don’t dampen the wild ride it took to get here, which remains more than worthwhile. 

Greta Titelman’s Exquisite Lies, Pleasance Courtyard, until 27 August, 8.10pm.