As an immigrant, I can’t help but perk up when I hear acts from Singapore and Malaysia are in town. It’s the unshakeable truth. Even though I’ve now lived more than half my life in Perth, I will always have a soft spot for Singapore. I will take any sliver of Singapore I can get, whether it’s a visiting artist or a new menu item at a Singaporean cafe.
However, there’s something special about seeing a Singaporean live onstage, away from the motherland.
Things get a bit wilder because of looser censorship laws and perhaps more importantly, physical distance from judgy, meddling relatives.
And boy, was Fadzri Rashid’s show a wild ride. Nothing is sacred, from family ties to that awkward period between school and national service, so leave political correctness at the door.
Watching his show is akin to watching the Shrek franchise as a family. Yes it’s a kid’s movie but there are Easter eggs hidden throughout to keep parents chuckling.
Rashid’s show is enjoyable for the general public, regardless of background. The life experiences are universal and Rashid sets the scene and explains the cultural contexts well. He even pauses his set to assume the role of translator for non-Singaporean guests.
However, the niche references (that only Singaporeans and Malaysians will get) give it an extra oomph. There were a couple of occasions when my fellow Singaporean plus one and I would laugh the broader joke… then realise that Rashid had snuck in an Easter egg.
Rashid’s attention to the audience and quick quips were a pleasant surprise. From calling out someone who was filming him, to realising the Rechabite had a higher balcony with premier views of his head, I loved that his crowd work offered comic relief without detracting from his main set.
In the last few years, Rashid has transitioned from using his stage name (Fakkah Fuzz) to his real name. He wanted to rebrand by shifting towards authenticity and sharing more of autobiographical anecdotes.
Indeed, despite sitting in the balcony, I felt a real moment of connection when Rashid talked about his late father. I was hooked into every detail of their conversation in the hospital. Everyone in The Rechabite knew Rashid was funny but this moment showcased his skill as a storyteller. Without us realising it, he had us completely drawn in, with nary a peep.
His authenticity shines through even at the end, when he invited everyone to a meet and greet. Judging by the congestion this caused, I can confidently say that his fans have embraced his new direction.
It’s a shame that Rashid was only here for a night. Perhaps given the full house at The Rechabite, he’ll consider a longer run in the future.
Perth Comedy Festival is running until 17th May – check out some shows while you can!