_{Picture: Matt Crockett}

A story tinged with grief probably shouldn’t elicit this many laughs, but there’s something warm and welcoming about Sarah Keyworth’s comedy. There’s a sadness to the set, underpinned by the recent death of her friend and joke-writing partner Paul Byrne, whose presence is felt in many of the stories and anecdotes. But a witty retort or unexpected punchline always waits just around the bend to elevate the mood again, courtesy of a new girlfriend that often gets idioms endearingly wrong and unwanted attention from a priest’s daughter as well as Bulgarian removal men. 

Callbacks are welcomed by the audience like familiar friends, including frequent references to her therapist’s £1-per-minute rate which puts the ticket price into perspective. Keyworth’s strength is pulling in an audience and making them like her; this show is a masterclass in just that. Even her ’worst joke of all time’ (about a mango) goes down well, despite not actually being a good joke; but that’s the point and there’s the charm. There’s also a bit of spectacle at the end, which ties the whole narrative together and ends the show on a gloriously triumphant note. 

Pleasance Courtyard, until 28 August, 5.40pm.