Paddy Seery: Hereditary

Hereditary is a stand-up comedy show by Paddy Seery at The Griffin in Glasgow, looking at Irish identity through family, drink and a misguided spell in the army.

The material moves between family, drink, sex and a period of military service that the performer treats as a poor decision. Its subjects include a generational pattern of alcoholism and the contrast between sexual reserve and considerable promiscuity, which the show presents as characteristically Irish.

A central thread is the pairing of a peace-loving hippy with the Irish Army, which the show uses as one of its main absurdities. The tone is sharp and quick, with personal stories that move into more emotional territory as the set develops. Themes include what people inherit from their families, the battles they fight both literally and figuratively, and the value of accepting the contradictions that shape who they are.

The Griffin hosts concerts and shows in Glasgow, and this stand-up comedy show is staged there.