Jonathan Schuster: Earth Choice (MICF)

Jonathan Schuster is a song and dance away from being the most versatile comic in the business. His trademark droll may not be for everyone, but it enables the Melbourne-based comic to traverse countless styles of comedy in a single performance without losing himself or his audience. It's a brilliant skill to possess as a comedian, but for Schuster, it seems to come at a cost.

Schuster is clearly nervous and makes some uncharacteristically unfortunate turns in his performance. He is overly apologetic for material he is unsure of, and tries to cover his tracks after some moments of self-doubt. The jokes he has are brilliant and the references are ones his audience understand, but still Schuster doesn't seem to believe in himself tonight.

His style is carved from the same stone as some of the greats before him. With his monotone and semi-deadpan delivery, Schuster is already on par with the likes of Tig Notaro and Steven Wright, waiting in the water to strike with the most surprising and ridiculous gags. His transitions between crowd work and set material is flawless, and sees Schuster at his awkwardly charismatic best. There is so much potential in Earth Choice, and if Schuster can get a hold of it, the show will skyrocket.

Chalking it down to early show nerves, it's safe to say that Schuster will eventually soar into excellence with Earth Choice. It's a little rough around the edges still, but give it time and this could be one of the highlights of the festival.

Jonathan Schuster presents Earth Choice till 23 Arp at Trades Hall, part of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival.