by **** (out of 5)
I first saw Emmanuel Sonubi at a Fringe 2022 preview showcase put on by Underbelly, where he told jokes about trying to keep up with current slang. Didn’t think much about it at the time, as I spent a week in Edinburgh last year and only could see so many shows in that time. But he was nominated for Best Newcomer that year, so I figured I should see if Sonubi might just become next Idris Elba. That he retold the slang joke worried me. But it’s all a set-up to eventually show off his skills, his CV, as it were. He jokes about how we mostly or sometimes live, presenting the CV version of ourselves to impress friends or strangers enough to get and keep whatever gigs we’re seeking. His CV includes musical theater, dance teacher, and IT, but he self-identified as bouncer when he started comedy. Which always reminds me of Elba since the actor worked as a bouncer at the old Carolines comedy club in New York City before he made it as an actor and became the heartthrob we all now know. So, could Sonubi be the next Elba? Perhaps! He definitely earned the extra star with his closer.
Since I typed this, Sonubi has earned a nomination for Best Show at the 2023 Edinburgh Fringe.
Emmanuel Sonubi: Curriculum Vitae runs through Aug. 28 at Underbelly Bristo Square Dairy Room
