Popular comedian Joe White returns to FRINGEWORLD Festival in 2025 with his show, Ethiopian & Still Not Hungry, playing at Terrarium Perth and the Kalamunda Hotel.

Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day? Actually, better not. Summer days in Perth are hot, tonight’s show was merely room temperature. Please do not misunderstand me, Joe White is a very engaging comedian, and much of his material was interesting (albeit very reliant on having seen him in the Channel Ten reality Tv series Hunted), and it did get some laughs. But, given his impeccable reputation and all the comparisons he has received, I just expected more.

In saying that, his frequent references to “his amazing & beautiful wife” were very sweet, and unlike many others in his profession, there is no ‘punching down’ with Joe White.

He did talk to his audience a lot though. But, unfortunately for Joe, tonight’s crowd just was not that into it, and he really did not seem to get the hint. This resulted in some very awkward interactions, with one punter urging him to “start telling some jokes.” Ironically, this did get a big laugh. this show seems to be much ado about nothing really. There is no premise, but there is also no agenda.

There is a bonus warm up act though, and his insights into Australia as a new Australian citizen are definitely worth a listen too.