Toxically Optimistic does what it says on the tin: offers us something excessively hopeful but not uncomplicatedly so. Weaving together notes on gun possession, opossum befriending, and bad dates, Johnson delivers a confident hour of solo stand-up that guarantees a fair few laughs and moments of poignancy.
Johnson is incessantly likeable – so much so that we find ourselves wanting her to like us too. Indeed, the hour plays out as a drawn-out conversation with a close friend; somewhere in the middle, the show loses itself, somewhat stumbling into the final act. Conclusions are mapped out but there’s a disconnect in where we end up. In many ways, such is part of the appeal – Johnson resists easy answers and doesn’t take herself, or the teachings of her set, too seriously.
Despite this, moments of honest vulnerability – notably, reflecting on the safety of herself and her loved ones – are welcomed with admirable care. Elsewhere, a handful of jokes cut a little too close; however, more often than not, Johnson reflects on such missteps, surveying the audience for their thoughts.
With her sharp wit and sparkling charisma, It is undeniably difficult not to feel optimistic – toxically or not-so-toxically – with Johnson.
Zainab Johnson: Toxically Optimistic, Pleasance Courtyard, until 24 Aug, 6.40pm