Michelle Wolf's touring show, The Best Job in the World, poses a question: does the title refer to motherhood or stand-up comedy? The Pennsylvanian comedian, known for her sharp wit, leaves it ambiguous, but her material leans heavily on parenting. She offers a sardonic take on society's dubious regard for mothering and breastfeeding, aiming to redress the balance with a show that celebrates women in a world not built for them.
Menstrual cycles and pregnancy reimagined
Wolf, 41, highlights the menstrual cycle as a prime example of an unheralded female experience. She argues that the entire month-long process deserves more recognition, not just the period itself. Similarly, she reimagines pregnancy discussions, suggesting they should focus on the marvel of spine manufacturing rather than fruit-sized comparisons. Her routine also delves into breastfeeding and, drawing inspiration from her toddler, proposes The Very Hungry Caterpillar as a menopausal parable.
Devilment and catty gags
The show is animated by Wolf's familiar streak of devilment, evident in her relish for a routine about her infant son's testicles and her mixed feelings. She also includes catty gags from her time as Kim Kardashian's joke writer. However, not all arguments hold up: her riff on female facial grooming pushes credibility, and a closing point about gender-essentialist propaganda is tenuously linked to skits on Stockholm syndrome and The Wheels on the Bus.
Despite these moments, both routines are funny. While the audience may leave uncertain whether mothering or stand-up is the world's best job, it's clear Wolf has mastered at least one of them. The show tours until 5 December.
