Scout Boxall's 'God's Favourite' Merges Medieval Martyrs and Modern Mental Health
In the captivating standup show God's Favourite, Australian comedian Scout Boxall takes audiences on a deeply personal journey back to one of the most challenging nights of their life. Performing at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, Boxall masterfully intertwines tales of medieval nuns, Wordle strategies, and harrowing psychiatrist visits, all while donning a hand-sewn 14th-century nun's habit. This production, described as part standup and part theatre, offers a unique blend of humour and introspection that resonates long after the curtain falls.
A Night of Withdrawal and Roleplay
The narrative centres on a time when Boxall forgot their bipolar medication while staying in a remote caravan park in regional Victoria. Stranded without transport or internet, they faced withdrawal for the first time in 12 years, leading to a disorienting experience where reality blurred and time became elusive. The reason for this isolation? Attending a Larp wedding—a live-action roleplay event where Boxall, a dedicated enthusiast, often portrays a nun. They explain that medieval religious women enjoyed quiet, safe communities, a stark contrast to the asylums typically reserved for those with mental illness in that era.
Exploring Art, Medication, and Perfection
As the night unfolds, Boxall reflects on life before their bipolar diagnosis, recalling academic success and manic episodes that brought financial gain but also turmoil. They grapple with whether medication stifles creativity, pondering if artists must endure suffering to produce great work. This theme is poignantly highlighted by a psychiatrist's suggestion to discontinue meds, sparking nostalgia for a time of relentless pursuit of perfection. The show's polished yet understated production, with timed sound and light cues, allows Boxall's raw storytelling to shine, creating an intimate atmosphere where recorded dialogues blend with live performance.
A Gentle Nudge Towards Self-Acceptance
God's Favourite does not offer grand revelations but instead provides a subtle encouragement to embrace neurodivergence and the nerdier aspects of oneself. Boxall's charm and willingness to challenge the audience, even when discussing less relatable experiences, make this show feel fresh and innovative. It prompts viewers to consider history's overlooked women and the value of community, all while questioning the age-old dilemma of whether artistic genius requires personal torment.
Ultimately, this performance is about striving for goodness over greatness, and Boxall's meticulous crafting results in a near-perfect exploration of identity and resilience. God's Favourite runs at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival until April 5th, offering a thought-provoking addition to this year's lineup.
