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Home Blog Review: Sunday Service with Matt Drapper at Buxton Festival Fringe ★ ★...

Review: Sunday Service with Matt Drapper at Buxton Festival Fringe ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

Sunday Service is an irreverent examination of Matt Drapper’s own upbringing in a devout Christian family where he and his nine siblings were schooled at home and the bible was always the focus.

Matt’s dig at Christianity is not cruel but buoyant, intelligent and whimsical, and he makes it easy to laugh along with him about his childhood, despite the fact that it must have been at times, tough and traumatic. Matt’s journey as a gay man that has fought to escape the clutches of religious dogma might not seem the natural basis for comedy but it is truly unique and you feel like you owe him a round of applause just for getting up and sharing it. Happily though, he also makes it very funny.

What becomes clear is Matt’s incredible knowledge of “the good book” and just how just how hilariously silly it can be. His insight is way beyond that of most modern folks and the routine is weirdly educational, as well as amusing. Sort of like Sunday School with your favourite fun uncle, regaling tales of talking donkeys and hair phobic angels.

His father and grandfather were preachers and Matt’s command of a room is obviously in his DNA. Despite the fact that he’s a new comedian, clearly still developing his craft and routine, you feel comfortable. And, the venue was full to capacity. It’s not perfect yet but you don’t feel that cringe you often get when someone raw takes to the stage. There are promising signs that Matt is ascending to become a divine force in comedy.

Buxton Festival Fringe runs until 27th July 2025. Click here for more information about the wider programme.

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