comedian – Such Cliche Reviews!

New Zealand actor Stephen Papps took the stage with his dead pan, observational comedy act. He has a polished, clearly well rehearsed delivery, with very little (if any) ad-libbed content. The main themes of the comedy show explored navigating sex and relationships, particularly in the context of growing older in our modern society.

The size of the audience lead to a very intimate show, with Stephen taking the time to make eye contact with each audience member throughout to really drive home his delivery. While Stephen’s particular style of straight-faced delivery and short story jokes may not suit every comedy-goer, he is clearly a professional and has his act down to a fine art.

Some of the content didn’t seem to resonate with the predominantly younger audience at the performance I attended, but I would recommend it to audiences at a similar life stage to Stephen Papps himself. Some audiences may be concerned with a couple of the jokes regarding women, especially trans women, as this does feature in Stephen’s punchlines.

For a few moments within the show, Stephen showcased his brilliant talent in vocal sound effects to provide background for his storytelling. This was a clear highlight and I found myself wanting more throughout the show.

⭐ ⭐ ⭐

Tickets: https://adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/stood-up-af2020

Content Warning: M

Performance Reviewed: Thursday 5 March 2020, at the Library in Ayers House

Simon Taylor returns to the Adelaide Fringe for the 10th time, and although the formula for this one-man stand-up comedy show doesn’t push any new boundaries, it’s a fantastic night for comfortable entertainment.

His material appeals to a large spectrum of audience members, with jokes that are relatable no matter where you come from. Gender stereotypes play a large role in Simon’s material, as do stereotypes of other characters, including the typical drunk-before-lunch Melbourne Cup goer.

The relatively small venue with a raised stage and flat seating allows you to feel as though you are a part of the act… if you’re sitting in the front row. Any further back than that and you feel distanced from the comedian. Simon combats this by including some audience participation right from the get-go, adding a personal touch and becoming friends with the crowd.

His sharp humour keeps the audience entertained over the course of 50 minutes, with a pace that feels steady with very few dull moments. The time spent on each individual topic feels natural and leaves you wanting more.

Simon Taylor is clearly an experienced comedian, with the delivery and timing of his jokes both precise and natural. He allows the viewers enough time to register and laugh at each jokes, so you’re never left wondering what he just said.

Simon Taylor is a Super Funny Boy is an excellent choice of show for any left-leaning person looking for a night of comedy that doesn’t challenge them in their beliefs and doesn’t make you have to think too hard to find it funny. This is entertainment for entertainment’s sake; and there’s nothing wrong with that.

Simon Taylor is a Super Funny Boy can be found at Spiegel Zelt in The Garden of Unearthly Delights at 9:30pm nightly, excluding Wednesdays, until March 15th 2020.

⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

Tickets: https://adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/simon-taylor-is-a-super-funny-boy-af2020

Content Warning: M

Official Website: https://simontaylorfunnyboy.com

Performance Reviewed: Tuesday 18th of February at Spiegel Zelt at The Garden of Unearthly Delights