Melbourne Reviews

If there’s a more wholesome man in comedy, I simply don’t believe you. Adam Hills, a veteran of Australian stand-up and panel show royalty remains a comedy festival favourite and there’s so many reasons why.

Hills’ has brought his 2020 intended show, Shoes Half Full to the Athenaeum Theatre, just 365 days later than intended, but with all the jokes, good humour and brilliance we’ve come to expect from the man that hosted Spicks and Specks from 2005–2011.

After a rough quarantine from travelling to and from Melbourne to London (about four months in total), Hills has returned home safely to a welcoming audience. After some COVID safety talk and general excitement to be in a real live theatre, the show that was prepared pre pandemic (oh what an innocent time) is here.

Unlike less established comedians, most people are already aware of who Adam Hills is, either from Aussie TV or The Last Leg filmed in the UK. Most people are also aware that Hills was born without a right foot, with the exception of one audience member who let out a very loud gasp when he revealed his golden prosthetic.

Naming his show Shoes Half Full is very befitting of the man who always seems to find the positive in any given situation. He clearly chooses to see the best of the world and makes you think when given the choice, why wouldn’t you choose happiness?

While the comedy is a-plenty, there are undertones of the serious. It’s a solid set from Hills who travels into uncertain territory on trans issues but acknowledges his need for education on the subject.

From dirty tricks on the rugby field, Islamophobia and Venetian holidays, it’s a mismatched set pulled together by Hills’ unflappable positivity. It’s not the most ground-breaking comedy of the festival but Hills radiates good vibes and cheerful anecdotes that will certainly put a smile on your dial.

What is unique about Hills is that whether he be on a screen on the other side of the world, or a stage six feet in front of you, he creates a connection. His sunny personality is genuine, his comedy the breath of fresh air we need and the Mariachi we should always say yes to.