Before this show, I had only seen Adam Hills as the sweet but funny boy next-door that he projects in his role as host of the ABC's immensely popular music trivia program Spicks and Specks. I was in for a surprise. Not only was he even funnier than on telly, he was also much grittier, telling jokes about serious binge drinking when vomit tastes like Tim Tams and feeling old around bouncy 19-year-olds who think his attempts at humour are ‘dad jokes’.

The show started half an hour late but it was certainly worth the wait. Along with Ross Noble, Adam Hills is one of those rare comedians who will deliver in virtually every line. His show is well planned but leaves room for improvisation and audience participation. The subjects range from racist sign language to prostate examinations. He told us how he was getting older and had quite recently reached the time in life when he had to have his prostate examined. It had actually felt quite nice, and he mused that that is really what scares guys so much about it. He had been to see one doctor, then another and then gone back to see the fist one again, at which point he had felt a bit like he had been cheating on him… I don’t have to tell you that at this point, the audience was falling over themselves laughing.

However, it wasn’t all jokes. Towards the end, when the audience was already eating out of his hand, he turned quite serious, dedicating the show to friends who have passed away or are suffering if hospital. He told us about his experiences at the Paralympics in Beijing and I couldn’t help but shed a tear for the amazing bravery and strength of some of those athletes.

To make an audience of thousands laugh is a feat but to make them cry is even more admirable. If you ever get the chance to catch Adam Hills, grab it without hesitation. You couldn’t find a more moving stand-up comedian than not-so-sweet but still-funny boy next-door Adam Hills.