HAVING become the "poster girl for mental health" through sheer happenstance, Ruby Wax's expertise in understanding mental health and cognitive therapy might not be universally known on her list of credits.

Those expecting a stand-up gig will be somewhat surprised to find themselves at a show centred around far more serious points than the elements on the surface of Wax's chaotic life, such as buying too many throw pillows.

Wax has structured her show well, bringing the audience through a series of questions that lead into her explanation of how the brain works and just why we all feel the same niggling thoughts every day. It's a nice comprehensive approach, though Wax does come across as a little patronising when she tells the audience they don't get it.

The show has been carefully workshopped, which is great for the scientific crash course but means the jokes are at risk of sounding scripted or tired at this stage in the run. However, the second half showcases Wax's natural quick wit and brash sense of humour.

Her passing digs might not appeal to all members of the audience, but she hosts a post-show Q&A session carefully, handling queries on mental health with all the attention they deserve. The matter-of-fact admittance that we all feel the same insecurities is reassuring, and here is where the show does feel as universal as Wax has intended.