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Hugging Comedians

now.. onto the comedy

Dirty Secrets Comedy, 1 February

2/1/2017

 
​ In the lead up to the 2017 Melbourne International Comedy Festival (MICF), get in touch if you want your MICF show reviewed or if you want to sit down for a chat/interview about your show! Get in contact on Facebook, Twitter or through the website. 
 
There was a smaller crowd than normal at Dirty Secrets Comedy on 1 February. While there were lots of laughs to be had, the night did have the occasional weird moment. These moments were largely dependent, or as a result, of how the comedian approached the smaller audience and how the crowd responded.
 
With this in mind, I will focus on the comedians who were particular highlights before covering some of the other elements.
 
Sam Taunton did a great job as MC. He acknowledged the audience early on and his crowd work improved as the night progressed. Sam’s style of comedy is largely classic observational and suits Dirty Secrets Comedy well. I particularly appreciate Sam’s clear and approachable manner as he delivers quality material. HUG ACHIEVED. 
 
Greg Larsen as ‘Colin’ dealt with a potentially touchy subject. That said, he did so in a novel way that drew the audience in and brought waves of laughter. Greg’s commitment to the ‘bit’ was effective regardless of the audience size and he should be commended for how he approached the set.
 
As I’ve noted previously on Hugging Comedians, surprise Dave Thornton is always a good thing. Even when he is working on new material (like he was on 1 February), he brings energy and experience to the stage that compliments a night well.  Dave worked through a range of fixed and malleable content, most of which resonated with the audience. However, some of his set appeared to suffer in the battle between finishing off the first bracket strongly and audience members wanting to refresh their glasses.
 
Simon Taylor and Nick Capper have very different styles but both approached their sets well. Simon had more of a classic delivery, with a range of prepared and rehearsed quality material that he delivered well to a relatively unresponsive audience. Conversely Nick delivered his humorous (but more left-field) material in a less linear fashion, which appeared to resonate with the new crowd that came in for the second bracket.
 
The night lost some momentum during periods of some depressing, rather than amusing, stories and where comedian(s) blamed the audience for not laughing. I have seen enough gigs where a comedian’s material that was performed elsewhere to raucous laughter has received little more than an awkward cough on a different night. This is surely part of what being a comedian is and such moments require an ability to adapt. This could be through a variation to the delivery or even changing up the content slightly. Where I take issue is where a comedian blames the lack of laughter on the audience. This outward display of frustration, and in some cases anger, does not help the audience or the comedian.
 
Overall I had another fun night at Dirty Secrets Comedy but it is an important reminder that this is a FREE ENTRY night. There will be ups and downs as comedians try out new material. What is also important is to remember that these nights also run on donations. I sound like a broken record at times, but at least put in a few coins when you leave. This will go towards the comedians but also to ensuring consistently good comedy nights. What goes around comes around right? 
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Comedy @ Spleen, 5 December

12/5/2016

 
Two word review: show stopper 
Comedy @ Spleen is an excellent comedy room, which continues to have packed line ups and draws large crowds of enthusiastic punters who are keen to have a laugh! On 5 December, the long room was packed almost to capacity 10 minutes before show time and had good energy as room runner Steele Saunders bustled around making sure the night was good to go!
 
Speaking of the packed line up, in order of performance we saw Tommy Dassalo (MC), Danny McGinlay, Chris Wainhouse, Naomi Higgins, Greg Larsen, Dave Thornton, Xavier Michelides, Jay Morrissey, Kyle Legacy, Michael Goldstein, Perri Cassie and Tommy Little.
 
Tommy Dassalo kicked off the night loudly and with enthusiasm. Despite Tommy seeming unsure about his set early on, he found his groove and used his local knowledge well to add additional punch to his stories. In his second set of the night, Tommy demonstrated how he can develop a joke to maximise it’s potential. Having seen Tommy a month or so prior at Rochey Comedy, he executed a story with greater precision at Spleen showing the benefits of his workshopping. Along these lines, Jay Morrissey also demonstrated quality development in his material, which drew solid laughs.
 
Chris Wainhouse and Mike Goldstein delivered short sets with composure and flow. Mike’s quick thinking and sharp tongue continues to entertain. Perri Cassie delivered a similarly understated set but at a time of the night where parts of his material may have been overlooked.
 
Danny McGinlay focused a large part of his set on audience interaction with a particularly chatty audience member. While Danny’s prepared material was executed well, his audience work is worth noting. Danny’s ‘relaying’ technique (repeating the audience member’s comments to the rest of the crowd) meant that all felt involved and there was a shared comedy experience. His smiley and jovial onstage persona meant that while there were some jibes, it was all in good faith. Not all of the comedians conducted their audience interaction with such a simple but skilled technique.
 
One point that needs to be made, which isn’t about onstage efforts, is about behind the scenes communication between the acts. I’ve never been ‘behind the curtain’ but surely there is some level of discussion (even between the brackets) about what is working and which audience members have been ‘targeted’ so far. Particularly on a busy night, it becomes tiresome if the same audience members are repeatedly spoken to. This is made even more evident if no jokes are found from different comedians targeting the same audience members.
 
In a mixed evening, the highlight of the night was surprise guest Dave Thornton. Dave opened with classic observational comedy, using relatable topics with well-developed scene setting introductions. Dave left a particular impression with a Louis CK’esque rant, which had a well-crafted build up, passion and loads of rage that led to waves of laughter. While his second rant did not have the same poignancy and felt a bit repetitious, this did not take away from the excellent performance we had just witnessed.
 
Remember punters when you head to Spleen to put in a couple of coins or a note when you leave! Thanks to Comedy @ Spleen and Steele for another entertaining night! 
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Comedy @ Crab Lab, 27 July 2016

7/27/2016

 
Two word review: Yeaaaah boooiii!!!
Smack bang in the middle of China Town you can find comedy at the Crab Lab, held at ‘House of Maximon’ (16 Corrs Lane, Melbourne). Up a few stairs, you enter a South American-inspired world with Maximón (aka San Simón) its sentinel. Grab a spot at one of the seats, tables, stools or benches (it’s an eclectic set-up), enjoy the $7 pints and free spicy popcorn while you take in the artwork (lasers coming out of their EYES)! Doors open at 7:30pm for an 8:30pm start. 
Now, before we get too far into this. Look at the bill. No seriously, look to the right. I’ll wait… Crab Lab has a packed line up and quality stand up acts! As with similar Melbourne comedy nights, at the end of the evening you pay as much as you think it deserves. I’d recommend you keep a note in your wallet for the end, as you will definitely enjoy yourself! 
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Others may have experienced differently but recently I have found the midweek comedy rooms/nights are prone to large numbers of shy or self-conscious laughers. While there are consistently a couple of loud laughers, who have no qualms about getting involved (possibly with the assistance of le alcohol), others do not have their confidence. While I’m not a regular (yet) of Crab Lab, I was pleasantly surprised at the strong laugh responses (even to OK jokes). Partially assisted by the large turnout, the positive and hearty laughter really added to the atmosphere of the night and improved the performances of those on stage! 
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​Now, onto some of the highlight of Crab Lab from 27 July!
 
Greg Larsen appeared to have a great time as our MC for the night! Well supported by the bar staff, he provided a funny but relaxed and ‘no fuss’ hosting performance! Knowing how many comedians were on the bill for the night, he did a good job keeping the energy and momentum of the night going! HUG ACHIEVED
After seeing Becky Lucas at the 2016 Melbourne International Comedy Festival in her show ‘Baby’ I have been eagerly awaiting her return to Melbourne. As I briefly mention in a previous post, Becky has at times, a frankness to her comedy that might be off-putting to some. But if anything, I find her style intriguing particularly when she is “all smiles” and approachable as she was at the Crab Lab. This style juxtaposes well with her occasional comedic bluntness. If you don’t already, subscribe to her newsletter – it’s both entertaining as well as an insight into Becky’s comedy mind!
 
While initially a little nervous and avoiding eye contact at all costs (possibly as part of his stage persona), Rohan Ganju started off slow but built up solid audience laughs. The delightfully sinister Danielle Walker and all-round good guy Dave Thornton (in a surprise hilarious set) also both nailed their spots.
 
Two comedians who were complete surprise packets (simply because I had not seen them perform before) were Adam Knox and Jess Perkins. Adam Knox came across as a witty comedian with solid material. Even while “maintaining tradition” with a shot on stage, he maintained a calm and controlled stage presence, which complemented his set well. Jess Perkins, so glam, had unique ideas and solid comedic timing. While the use of props can sometimes detract from a performance, Jess’ “closer” was both hilarious and executed well!
 
It was a pleasure to briefly meet Danielle, Jess, Adam, ‘The Josh’ Earl, Becky and Dave! In the unlikely event you read this, would definitely be keen to chat comedy with you sometime over beverages/food (my shout obviously)! 
 
The Crab Lab is a great night out for new and experienced comedy spectators alike! Will definitely be coming back! 

Little Dum Dum Club's 300th Episode: The Croxton Park Hotel, 25 June

6/25/2016

 
Two word review: talent smorgasbord.

Congratulations to Karl Chandler, Tommy Dassalo and everyone who has been part of the Little Dum Dum Club for reaching 300 episodes and celebrating in style at the Croxton Park Hotel in Thornbury on 25 June.  
 
Starting off the night with some stand-up, Tommy, Karl, Dilruk Jayasinha, Xavier Michelides and Demi Lardner strutted their stuff. Great to see Dilruk and Demi live again after their excellent MICF2016 efforts in ‘Sri Wanka’ and ‘Life Mechanic’ respectively. Xavier had a confident stage presence, a surprising array of characters and delivered a solid short set for the occasion at hand.
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What followed in the epic live event was a celebration of all things Dum Dum. Banter, drinks, ‘got-him’ moments, chocolate mouse, drinks, rad dad, jokes that went a bit too far, outstanding guest appearances and more drinks. In addition to the stand-up from Dilruk, Xavier and Demi, we were delighted with the presence of Dave Thornton, Adam Richard, Tom Ballard, Danny McGinlay, Adam Rozenbacks and Anthony ‘Lehmo’ Lehmann. Even Nick Cody made a special appearance starkers via Skype (cannot un-see). For what was an evening full of laughter, here are a couple of highlights:
  • Tommy and Karl book-ended their stand-up well in classic Dum Dum style. Side note: the mini-versions of Karl and Tommy were haunting!
  • Demi completed a dangerous stunt (and overcame significant OH&S issues) through brilliant use of the podcast medium. Also, who knew Demi could rap?   
  • Without trying to spoil the podcast…can we talk about Dave’s talent for voices? Having only heard his impressions on the podcast, seeing them live was an absolute treat!
  • Dum Dum Club live events excel in comedians sitting around, having a great time riffing off of each and making as many jokes as they can.
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Great to meet some of the comedians on the night (thanks Adam and Danny) and always keen to buy comedians a beer/coffee and chat comedy anytime. And Tommy, if you’re keen on designing logos… love to see what you’d do with Hugging Comedians!
 
Thanks Dum Dum Club for the 300 episodes and putting on a crazy but entertaining night!

Free Comedy Thursdays @ Rochester Hotel

6/16/2016

 
Two word review: Honest comedy
Hugs achieved: x 3

Comedians are people too and the comedy at the Rochester (located at 202 Johnston Street, Fitzroy) helps you connect with them. The Rochester is a great venue to bring your friends to have a couple of beverages, maybe some food and then once you’re finished, stroll upstairs for quality comedy.
 
If you can be pulled away from the three open fireplaces, the great selection of beers and the faux SHARK HEAD ON THE WALL downstairs at the Rochester, there is much joy to be had with the comedy on Thursday nights upstairs.

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Similar to Comedy @ Spleen on Monday nights, this is a donation affair – you pay with the cash you have (preferably notes but coinage will do – a $5’er from me was all I could pull together). One thing Comedy at the Rochester has over Spleen…. FREE POPCORN!
 
The venue is small but suits close and personal comedy. There are no bad seats and there is easy access to the bar (if that’s your style). And in case you can’t make it all the way to Fitzroy by public transport, it is a $6 Uber from the CBD, so you’ve got no excuses!
 
Now, as always, onto the comedy featuring a couple of highlights of the night at Rochester Comedy on 16 June.

Our MC for the night, comedy lover and all round good-guy Ivan Aristeguieta was an excellent host. It is Ivan’s passion for comedy and his appreciation of good people and food, which makes him a warm and approachable MC but also, it gives his comedy authenticity.  Having only chatted with him briefly, you get the sense that Ivan genuinely wants an audience to feel and enjoy the comedy at hand. It was a pleasure to meet him and I recommend you try and catch his live gig on 2 July if you’re keen to check him out. Also, most importantly… HUG ACHIEVED
 
Damien Power’s set (the headliner act for the evening) was emotionally challenging but very funny. In parts, Damien’s set was rough. Not to mean that his comedy was poorly put together, but the excerpts about his life made you want to get up on stage and give him a big hug. The hilarious image Damien portrayed of the upcoming apocalypse will stay with me for a while!
 
Hold the phone…. Dave Thornton? Is that you? Despite almost being in disguise, Dave rocked a fantastic feature set and was an excellent surprise guest!
Michael Hing’s (Hingers) brutally honesty comedy was a particular highlight of the night. Not that I am biased (well, I possibly am) but I appreciate comedy that comes from true and real emotion. I had never seen Hingers perform live (outside his participation in Good Game Live at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival 2016), and he outshone my expectations. He put forward a blunt and insightful set that made me laugh but also have a greater appreciation of the reality of being in the public eye. Hingers put forward a top effort and I’m looking forward to having him come back to Melbourne. HUG ACHIEVED
 
I was unsure of what Rob Hunter would deliver when he arrived on stage. Rob’s on stage persona is quite nervous but he nailed punch lines out of nowhere. Despite lacking some flow at times (particularly when he followed some comedy gold with a bit of granite), Rob pulled off a surprise dark horse performance.
HUG ACHIEVED

 
Thanks to Brendan for organising the night and Aaron Gocs for helping collect the donations!
 
The Rochester Comedy night is underrated and will/should be packed in no time.
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    editor

    Andy
    Melbourne-based comedy enthusiast.

    If you are a Melbourne-based comedian or a comedian just passing through, please get in touch! I'll buy you a coffee, we'll talk about comedy, and I'll write up our chat for others to enjoy (hug optional but recommended).


     

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