Great things are expected of this 2008 if.comedy Best Newcomer nominee. Pippa Evans is young, elegant and talent oozes from every inch of her willowy frame. This debut solo set is a good show, but a better CV, demonstrating her versatility.

The narrative hook of a counselling session for lonely people allows her to introduce her gallery of neurotic creations. These include the wonderfully twitchy Australian relationships guru and an instantly recognisable city high-flyer staring into an existential abyss.

Best by a country mile is embittered Nashville songbird Loretta Maine, whose ballads have a viciously witty kick, usually aimed at her ex. In one hilariously acidic ditty, she recalls giving the hospital incorrect blood group information so that he will know the “feeling of rejection”.

This is consistently funny if never truly original. Her cat-fixated spinster owes much to Morwenna Banks and Beryl Reid, while her suburban wife, all ponies and pearls, feels like a Fascinating Aida out-take.

Evans clearly has potential, though maybe as a performer rather than a writer. Give her the right script and stand well back.
Until 21 March (020 7478 0100,
www.sohotheatre.com)