I never got the chance to first experience Tomas Clifford’s sold-out, multi-award-winning debut of Tomas Clifford Got Stood Up!, last year and was sorely regretful. Thankfully, the show has returned on tour for a second year, and I was not disappointed. 

Clifford has modernised the cabaret, an art form sorely lacking popularity amongst young people. By making a throughline that is punchy, accessible and relatable, it’s hard to imagine an audience member of any demographic not being charmed by his production. Clifford is present, sharp and performative in the best sense of the word. It is so incredibly refreshing to see a young performer put palpable effort into their art – a comforting sight knowing the future of the arts remains in very good hands. 

I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the energetic band that is as much the beating heart of this show as Clifford is. It was heartwarming to see how much adoration Clifford has for the band, and while he is unabashedly the show’s star and brainchild, the band members never feel second fiddle. 

Whether you’re a cabaret veteran or an infrequent Fringer, it is hard to fault this razor-sharp showstopper. Sure to be the catalyst for the rise of an inherent performer that will no doubt be in the artistic scene for many years to come.