Broke and Alone in Brisbane

Ciarán Sammon may be broke and alone in Brisbane, but he’s rich in talent and absolutely in his element onstage. In this tightly crafted hour of stand-up, Sammon delivers a show packed with punchlines, personality, and a refreshing sense of purpose.

From the moment he steps onstage, Sammon’s presence is instantly likeable—confident, relaxed, and totally in control, without ever tipping into arrogance. His rapport with the audience is easy and natural, laying the groundwork for a set that walks the fine line between edgy and offensive with impressive skill. He knows exactly when to push and when to pull back, using silence as a powerful tool to build tension and let the laughter land.

The writing is sharp and considered. There’s a mix of pop culture references, political jabs, and personal anecdotes, all stitched together by an undercurrent of intelligence that doesn’t talk down to the crowd. It’s accessible, yes, but never dumbed down. In a festival landscape where comedy sets sometimes favour vibe over structure, it is refreshing to see a show with actual punchlines—plenty of them—and a strong sense of voice.

Importantly, Sammon punches up, not down. He navigates provocative material with a clarity of perspective and moral compass that sets him apart. He’s not trying to please everyone, and that’s exactly what makes his act compelling—he has a point of view, a sense of style, and a brand that’s distinctly his own.

Adding to the charm of the show is pianist Alice Larkin, who brings a warm presence throughout and adds an extra sparkle to the final musical number. Under the direction of David Padget, the show finds its rhythm and flow with ease, wrapping the audience in an hour of smart, satisfying comedy.

Broke and Alone in Brisbane proves that Ciarán Sammon is anything but alone when it comes to talent. Keep an eye on this comic—he’s got something to say, and he knows exactly how to make you laugh while he’s saying it.

Kitty Goodall

Photography by Kitty Goodall (top) and Joel Devereux (lower).