Sikisa review: Triumphant, multi-talented and a twinkle in her eye

Sikisa has the best possible ending for a stand-up show.

A comedian, an immigration lawyer AND an internationally award-winning burlesque performer, Sikisa has more strings to her bow than is strictly fair. She’s also got this twinkle in her eye that says “hey, I’m gonna make you fall in love with me”. And then she does just that.

Recently diagnosed with dyslexia, an outcome she says is pointless now that no one is giving her a free laptop for it, in Hear Me Out Sikisa describes the hunt for her own superpower. She has a real way with words, even if spelling them has proven a life-long struggle. It’s a triumphant journey, stopping off at a feast of places along the way that reveal new depth to her current conviction.

Highlights come in stories about her entry into a school talent show after lying about being amazing at the drums, and a funeral she held for an ex because he had ghosted her. He must have been dead — what other reason could he have for not responding to her texts? Her confidence in herself and her material shines, bringing a palpable energy of excitement to the room. It’s an all-singing, all-dancing sort of vibe.

There’s a tasty moment of glee when she recalls her emo-kid era, appraising the audience with the universal emo call of “CUT MY LIFE INTO PIECES”, and a not insignificant proportion of the audience give her the hearty “THIS IS MY LAST RESORT” that she deserves in response. Even those viewers who don’t seem to be au fait with the music of Papa Roach clearly enjoy the effect that this has in demonstrating Sikisa’s power over us.

By the end, Sikisa has discovered her superpower, and she’ll leave you in no doubt of what that is — but you’ll have to see her to find out for yourself! You will not be disappointed.

Sikisa: Hear Me Out is at Monkey Barrel 4, 7:50pm, until August 27th. Tickets here.