Every Single Thing in My Whole Life Review – A Heroic Act of Overreach

Has autobiographical comedy reached its zenith? This question arises with Zoë Coombs Marr’s show, Every Single Thing in My Whole Entire Life, which takes navel-gazing standup to an almost absurd level. The Australian comedian comes prepared with spreadsheets and digital whiteboards, detailing every notable incident from her 40 years of life: Animal Friends, Memorable Sandwiches, Things I Like That No One Else Does.

The doors are locked and it seems like we might be here for a while.

Of course, the task is impossible—that’s part of the joke. However, Coombs Marr may not fully capitalize on this grand overreach. Theoretically, the audience can help plot a different course each night through her hyperlinked flowcharts and grids. In practice, our interactions are limited, resulting in a show that consists of a few humorous anecdotes from her life. Some are from a document titled Vom Wee Poo, eliciting basic laughs.

Other stories include her encounter with Cate Blanchett while working at the Sydney Theatre Company, and some reflections on past relationships. For those keen on autobiographical details, it might feel a bit lacking, though Coombs Marr supplements it with asides on the boom in queer comedy and a sharp non-binary one-liner about her own gender identity.

Does this material fit in this specific show? That’s debatable. But the looseness is charming. Coombs Marr’s delight in her overly meticulous endeavor is contagious, and she is in a playful mood. The next corny joke or unexpected twist (“I’m a trickster!”) is never far off.

It’s a bit jarring, then, to consider that this project originated from a recent depressive episode, during which she felt the need to assess her life’s achievements. Does Every Single Thing fulfill that purpose? It certainly seems to reinvigorate her, and—even if you think the idea could be developed further—it will likely brighten your day as well.

• At Monkey Barrel Comedy, Edinburgh, until 25 August