Cabin Pressure review | Sunny Youngsmith | Melbourne International Comedy Festival | The Motley Wherehaus

If only all on-boarding processes were as enjoyably hectic as Sunny Youngsmith’s Cabin Pressure. In a suitably small black box theatre space, Youngsmith transforms the room into an aeroplane, the seating arranged with a central aisle for every audience member to walk down, flanked by rows pressed against the walls. It’s an effective bit of staging that immediately sets the tone of the show that is supported by a score of low hums of engine noises and in-flight movements. From the premium economy seat covers to the single lush business class throne, the details create an environment that is playful and a little unhinged.

For the most part, Youngsmith takes on the role of our lone flight attendant, abandoned by the rest of the crew who have all called in sick. Slightly frazzled and under the pump, they ask a 'passenger' to help with the pre-departure safety demonstration. Audience participation is handled with real care, with eye masks handed out as props for the long flight but also as a gentle opt-out signal for anyone not keen to be involved. It’s a smart, low-pressure system, though the atmosphere Youngsmith establishes so quickly is so relaxed and disarming that I don't see any masks on heads.

At other points, with a few inventive costume changes in the toilet, Youngsmith steps into the shoes of fellow passengers. The standout is a perfect take on the most irritating kind of traveller, the one who treats the plane like their personal playground and every other passenger as a potential new best friend. It’s a wonderful sketch that leans into the chaos without overstaying its welcome that is painfully recognisable and genuinely hilarious.

Cabin Pressure could easily nosedive by relying on novelty, but Youngsmith builds a world that keeps paying off. The show remains grounded in strong character work and a clear sense of play. It’s a cleverly constructed, consistently funny piece that turns a familiar, often dreaded experience into something joyful and unpredictable.

Cabin Pressure was performed at The Motley Wherehaus between 23 March - 5 April, as part of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival.