Alex Edelman: Just For Us (MICF)

Far and away, the best thing about MICF is the unbelievable range of comedic genres on offer. But every now and again, the craving kicks in for the classic "one comic, one mic" performance that is quickly losing its appeal among the young up-and-comers of Aussie comedy. Perhaps because this tried and true format can seem weak-sauce compared to the bells and whistles of more theatrical comic modes, traditional stand-up can be overlooked. But Just For Us is fighting back hard.

The concept behind US comic Alex Edelman's Just For Us is an incredible story of prejudice and free thought, layered with exceptional comedic poise and storytelling. Raised in a fairly traditional Jewish family, Eledman uses his religious background to delve into the depths of privilege, identity, race and a whole lot more, all while being a master of comic timing and delivery.

What's particularly noteworthy about Edelman is his ability to spin on a dime between humorously arrogant self-awareness and surprisingly insightful deprecation. The moments of revelation, wherein he exposes an internal struggle to define his place in the world, are unexpected, amusing and heartbreaking all at once.

Edelman has the kind of comedic brain that many could only dream of having, taking seemingly nonsensical ideas and threading them together to make them far greater than the sum of their parts. Truly wonderful, but more importantly, fucking hilarious.

Alex Edelman presents Just For Us until 22 Apr at the Greek Centre, part of the 2018 Melbourne International Comedy Festival