Headliners (MICF)

Ryan Hamilton is a brilliant choice not only to appear in Headliners, but to also open the night's proceedings. His own brand of self-deprecation is unparalleled in wit and distinctiveness, excellently skewing his smiley image as a "1950's ice cream salesman". His positive tone and at-times dark content is awkward and humorous all at once. Hamilton deserves a return to a Melbourne stage as soon as possible.

Next to the stage is Emily Heller, and the tonal shift that comes between the two is a staggering but amusing surprise. Heller is clearly jaded by the current political climate of her home country, pleading with the audience to let her stay once the run of shows is over. Her observations are brilliant, but Heller shines at her brightest in the longer forms of story and recounting that she has mastered. It is unfortunate that she doesn't have the time in this context to show her ultimate potential, but the ride is excellent nonetheless.

The riotous Liza Treyger takes the reins next and explodes into a hilarious cavalcade of off-colour sex jokes and allusions to the holocaust. It's certainly not for everyone, but her genius approach to modern sex and the discrepancies in male vs female sex talks win the crowd over without hesitation. The uninhibited comic knows no boundaries and has little care for them, but a well thought out and mutinous set overall.

Finally, Jak Knight, whose free comedic style is a welcome addition to the show, draws the night to a close. Knight takes on some serious issues like depression and police brutality with poise and swagger, disarming the crowd before nailing them with some great 'shit, did he really just say that?' moments. Knight is definitely a little "looser" than usual tonight, as he admits, but his delivery is not often witnessed on the Melbourne comedy scene.

It's a night of generous variety and bright comedic talent. The Headliners have done it again.

Headliners plays til 23 Apr at Melbourne Town Hall, part of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival.