The United Nations Comedy Show is comparable to a tasty smorgasbord.

The number and variety of dishes (performers) were satisfying, with clear signs of appreciation from the customers.

The colourful MC set the tone for a night of fast-flowing laughs, engaging audience members from assorted backgrounds. His dynamic introduction created camaraderie among spectators, with a range of references to places of origin or residence.

The sharing of stories and cultures in a humorous context added richness and spice. A standard I consider important was respected: more wit than smut, avoiding excessively pungent sauciness. Expletive use was within the normal range of vernacular, hardly noticeable and not exploited for cheap laughs.

Marriage, parenthood, relations and sex were ingredients in most performances. Joke topics ranged from bin days to tourism slogans, going beyond personal experience to include wider observations.

There was a subtle but sharp political reference to a distant land, delivered with elegance. Another memorable item was the anecdote including the moniker "Head and shoulders": it may well be true, as it goes back to schoolboy recollections that seem believable to an outsider.

There was variety in the room as well as on the stage, and cultural differences, expectations and references were often the focus.

Each of the six featured comedians had a personal style, none overstayed their welcome, and everyone in the room enjoyed the experience of what may be labelled 'Live at the Hilton'. It is great to know that Grassroots Comedy was founded in WA: more power to them and their shows!