By Elyce Phillips 
At a point in ’Let’s Do This’, DeAnne Smith compares herself to Harry Potter, and while we could
draw a long bow and liken her comedic talents to wizardry, I can’t imagine Harry talks about vaginas
quite as much. Which is a shame, because if there’s anything I took away from this show, it is that
discussions about vaginas are incredibly funny.
‘Let’s Do This’ is a show about insecurity and confidence – the insecurities we all have and the
inexplicable confidence we perceive in others. The conflict between having the confidence to be up
on stage and yet having difficulties in everyday social situations is ripe for comedy and both sides
of Smith really shine here. Although she talks at length about her lack of confidence, you are also
reassured that she is very good at sex. Her bit about supremely cocky male comedians is an absolute
highlight.
Following the surprisingly boisterous show opening, Smith warned us that she needed to pace
herself, but seeing her up on stage, she appears to have boundless energy. The title perfectly
encapsulates the spirit of Smith’s show. We’re all in it together. It’s been a while since I’ve been in
an audience that’s been so receptive and willing to participate, and this is down to Smith’s skill in
engaging the room. She is adept at creating an open and inclusive atmosphere, freely calling out
closed-up punters with crossed arms early on and reassuring us all that we were in the hands of
an expert. Topics such as feminism and the advertising industrial complex are deftly handled and
spliced in with the faithful standards of poop jokes and ukulele. You’re left in no doubt that DeAnne
Smith is an absolute pro.
‘Let’s Do This’ is endearingly relatable and self-depreciating on a meta level. Go with friends, or be
prepared to make new ones very rapidly.
DeAnne Smith: Let’s Do This’ is on at the Cloak Room at Melbourne Town Hall until April 21.
http://www.comedyfestival.com.au/2013/season/shows/let-s-do-this-deanne-smith