[Review] Kuah Jenhan’s Like This, Like Dad – A Poignant, Punchy Tribute to Family and Fatherhood

It is not often you walk into a comedy show expecting to walk out laughing and a little choked up, but that’s exactly what Kuah Jenhan delivered in Like This, Like Dad, playing from 18 to 20 July at The Ngee Ann Kongsi Theatre @ W!ld Rice, Funan.

This one-man show by the Malaysian comedian is built around his complicated, affectionate, and deeply personal relationship with his late father. While the topic of death might seem heavy for comedy, Jenhan skillfully transforms it into something both cathartic and hilarious.

His jokes land hard and fast, but always with a sense of emotional grounding that keeps the material heartfelt rather than harsh. The result is a performance that’s not just engaging but poignant, especially for anyone who’s experienced the loss of a loved one.

My own father passed away last December, and I did not expect a comedy show to stir those memories.

Jenhan’s ability to celebrate his father’s life through laughter, never shying away from darker truth was unexpectedly healing. His humour never feels mean-spirited, even when he pokes fun at the quirks and flaws of family life. In fact, the most touching part of the show is how unfiltered it is. Nothing, and no one, is off limits: his sister, girlfriends, aunties, uncles, even his mother.

You walk away feeling like you have just spent an evening with your funny cousin at a family gathering, reminiscing about the good old days, awkward moments and all.

The show’s origins date back to 2013, when it first debuted in Malaysia. Since then, it has evolved, matured, and travelled, garnering praise at international comedy festivals like Perth Fringe World, where Jenhan was nominated for Best Comedy. It’s only now, in 2025, that Singapore audiences finally got to experience it live.

Jenhan’s style is uniquely disarming. He does not rely too much on vulgarity, sexual jokes or over-the-top theatrics which many standup comedians are guilty of using as a safety net. Instead, it is his warmth, storytelling finesse, and impeccable timing that make the show work. His transitions from one punchline to the next feel effortless, even when weaving through themes of grief, tradition, generational tension, and belonging. And just when you think the show might veer too far into sentiment, he lands another laugh that lightens the room again.

A surprise appearance by fellow Malaysian comedy powerhouse Dr. Jason Leong was a delightful addition to the evening. It was an unexpected treat for those in attendance and added an extra layer of energy and camaraderie to an already well-paced, intimate production.

Whether you have lost someone or just need a good laugh with meaning, this show hits the sweet spot between funny and profound. Kuah Jenhan proves once again that the best comedy does not come from avoiding pain, but from transforming it into something honest, human, and yes, absolutely hilarious.

There is still one last afternoon show tomorrow at 3pm. Catch it if you are available.

Kuah Jenhan: Like This, Like Dad.

Venue:
The Ngee Ann Kongsi Theatre @ W!ld Rice, Funan

Date and Time:
18-19 July 2025 8pm
20 July 2025 3pm