Alicia Adejobi finds out why there is no one like Iszi Lawrence.
Iszi Lawrence is one of those people who unintentionally falls into a stereotype. Tall, with white hair and in her own words dressed like a “1920s lesbian”, Lawrence does not look like the most easy-going person you could come across. But she is. In fact, she's so laid back that she doesn't even take offence to people turning up 20 minutes late for her last performance of Science Friction at the Camden Fringe.
The newcomer puts on an interesting show which she simultaneously uses to clear up all the possible misconceptions about her, and to provide a unique insight into her wacky life. Lawrence details her insecurities about her body and her constant need to be pedantic. We also find out why living with her religious flatmate can sometimes feel like hell...or was it that she would go to hell if she didn't convert to Christianity?
Lawrence's knack for turning personal stories into brilliant gags is demonstrated when she reveals that even her mother had to ask whether or not she is a lesbian- while her boyfriend sat next to her at the same table. Jokes about her mother's thoughts on paedophilia would normally be shocking if it were anyone else, yet the charming element of naivety in Lawrence's voice makes it easy to dismiss.
Lawrence does well to gain sympathy from the audience when she expresses her innermost feelings of inadequacy, and even she admits that the show is starting to resemble therapy. The comedian's silly brilliance is at it's best when she tells of her horror when her one-eyed, three-legged cat walked in on her naked. The mortified expression on her face is priceless.
Throughout the show, the self-confessed pedantic makes sure to constantly inform us of her greatest struggle in life- trying to avoid her flatmate who is pressuring her to join the Christian faith. One of Lawrence's strengths is her comical analysis of every little detail, and the devout Atheist is hilarious as she gives her reasons as to why she doesn't believe in religion.
It is clear that Science Friction is still a work-in-progress as she occasionally glances at her notebook to remember the next gag. Although, this is to be expected from a relative newcomer and Lawrence freely admits that she has made some mistakes.
Lawrence is a talented comedian and Science Friction is a thoroughly enjoyable and entertaining show. Her ability to improvise and think quickly when the unexpected happens is impressive and it is refreshing to come across someone so polite and humble. Lawrence's charming nature will definitely take her career far.
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