As I sat down for the world premiere of Mike Blaha: International Joke, I was ready for a rollercoaster of punchlines. But what I got was a different kind of ride. Mike’s show is not just about the jokes but the journey. He takes you on a trip through Europe, sharing his quest for the perfect International joke, a journey filled with unexpected twists and turns that keep you engaged in his captivating storytelling. 

Mike is a man of many talents in his personal life, and as fate would have it, he can adapt to any situation. He’s a true digital nomad, always ready to work. Have a laptop and will travel. He mentions living away from America as much as possible for the next four years while Voldemort is president. America needs to find their very own Harry Potter. Yes, there will be a smattering of political jokes during the show, which will entertain most of the audience.

This show is about finding the best joke, a question Mike explores throughout his performance. Is there a best international joke? Isn’t comedy subjective? Some may find English comedy boring and American slapstick a little pedestrian. 

Don’t expect laugh after laugh; expect a man telling you a story you’ll find yourself immersed in because it’s interesting and resonates with our shared experiences of travel mishaps. Many of us have made the same mistakes while travelling as Mike has. At the time, the mistake causes a panic; however, it makes a great story when you come home or to entertain audiences.

While looking for this elusive joke, you’ll realise as Mike takes you on his holiday through Europe that, oh, I can’t tell you that, it’ll spoil it, but there is a learning moment. Hopefully, it’ll dawn on you before he makes it evident at the show’s end. This performance is a light-hearted teaching moment. 

As this was the first show in the world, I can only see it getting better and aging well like a fine wine.