Late Night Letters And Numbers (MICF)

As the punters roll in to Late Night Letters And Numbers, the panel is ready on stage and multiple people audibly whisper "Oh my god, that's actually David Astle!" Host Nick Caddaye smiles onwards at the comedy/maths/anagrams crossover demographic before him - the people know what they are here for.

Astle, as he does so brilliantly, heads up dictionary corner along with the lovely Alanta Colley, who immediately declares that this safe haven is a welcome change to her previous goes in the contestant seat. Speaking of which, those on the course of nerd victory tonight are the hilarious Brianna Williams and Welsh export and funnyman Lloyd Langford. Finally, Lisa Skye is tonight's "Numbers Girl", and brings a hilarious overarching sense of impending doom throughout.

For those who are unaware of how Letters And Numbers works, then probably don't bother with this show because the "nerd and proud" sect have this one covered for you. Having said that, the genuine sense of competition mixed with the comedic talent on offer is surprisingly enjoyable, even for those who aren't keen on the puzzles page of The Age. Prizes are on offer for those in the audience who indulge their scholarly side, and watching the comics struggle against the diehards in the crowd is a schadenfreudian porn.

This is pure, highbrow, brainteasing comedy performed by excellent buffoons. It's niche, for sure, but it's heroin for asthmatics with Masters degrees.

Late Night Letters And Numbers plays 10 & 17 Apr at Melbourne Town Hall, part of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival.