Award-nominated stand-up comedian Daniel Connell is set to bring his new show Gutless Wonder to Perth for one night only, hitting The Rechabite on Saturday, August 27. After kicking off his comedy career in Canberra over a decade ago, Connell moved to Melbourne in 2010 and has gone on to star in nine consecutive Melbourne International Comedy Festivals, winning him fans across the country and culminating in his biggest headline shows to date. BRAYDEN EDWARDS caught up with Daniel Connell to hear his tales of travelling the country, making the most of COVID lockdowns and what we can look forward to on the night.
You were over here a few months ago for the Melbourne Comedy Festival Roadshow. What was something new you discovered about WA on that visit?
I discovered the Super Pit in Kalgoorlie for the first time. It is indeed a super pit. We didn’t have a lot of time there, but it was very impressive. I had Rick James’ Super Freak in my head for a week or so after, with the word ‘freak’ replaced by ‘pit’ of course.
Anything you wanted to do that you might get another chance to this time?
I’d like to fly a paper airplane into the super pit. Or if I only get to Perth, I’d love a swim in the ocean.
And over that journey you visited a lot of places across the country. What was the most bizarre situation you found yourself in?
A few years back I did a gig at the Deniliquin RSL for their 40-year anniversary, while I was performing my set they had a projector screen behind me rotating through photos of the club members who had passed away over the previous year. A perfect backdrop to any comedy show.
The past few years, and the lockdowns in particular, have been challenging for performers like yourself. What was one thing you learnt during COVID lockdowns that you never would have otherwise?
I learnt that, if given the chance to do absolutely nothing, every day, for two years, I will indeed do absolutely nothing, every day, for two years. I also learnt that Blue Heelers was a very underrated TV show.
What would you say is the biggest difference between your comedy shows now, and when you first started?
Lots of things, but mainly how the show flows. I’ve written 10 or so full solo shows now, so I’ve finally got the hang of how to piece a show together. And to make it flow and make sense for the entire 55 minutes.
What kinds of things nowadays have been on your mind, that might shape your comedy shows in the future?
Idiots, I love idiots and talking about idiots on stage. I’m always on the lookout for idiots or examples of idiotic behaviour, so if anyone knows of any, please get in touch.
Speaking of the future, are we likely to see you here again sometime soon? What’s on the agenda for the rest of 2022 and beyond?
Absolutely, all going well with borders I’ll be back for Perth Fringe in 2023 with a brand-new show.
