Review: Perth Comedy Festival Gala at Regal Theatre
Perth Comedy Festival Gala at Regal Theatre
Wednesday, May 1, 2024
Ten talented comedians took the stage on Wednesday night for the first of three Perth Comedy Festival Galas at Regal Theatre.
Hosted by Bob Downe in a twinkling gold jumpsuit and equally golden helmet of hair, the genius of this comedy showcase is the variety of comedy styles you get to sample, making it perfect for the commitment-phobic or comedy rookies. You might even enjoy something you didn’t imagine you would—like the unforgettable chicken karaoke (see below).
Starting strong was experienced Irish comedian Ed Byrne, with intelligent observations of life and bundles of energy, similar in style to the much-loved Michael McIntyre.
In stark contrast to clever Ed, spot two was Sean “Woody” Woodland, whose green t-shirt, beer belly, Aussie accent, and dirty jokes screamed his middle-aged bogan persona.
Tipping yet to a third style of comedy was Dan Rath, whose neurodiverse perspective was insightful, yet his 9/11 quips crossed the audience’s line and hushed the crowd. However, his description of neurodiversity as a spectrum, “with meal preppers at one end and those smelling prime numbers at the other,” should be printed on a tea towel.
Fourth in the line-up was Felicity Ward, who developed exceptional audience rapport in less than a minute. Ward is also the star of the aforementioned hilarious chicken karaoke. Never before have those three words been strung together, and what sounds odd on paper was fantastic onstage. We won’t ruin the surprise of her karaoke song of choice, but whatever you are singing in your head will not even come close.
Again, the stark contrast between comedic styles was noticeable as we jumped from endearing Ward to the gritty deadpan of Australian Luke Heggie.
Unfortunately, Act Two opened poorly, with well-known comedian Tom Ballard off his game and eventually voicing his frustration at the audience for not laughing—nothing kills a room quicker than being told to laugh.
Thankfully, that didn’t stop Chris Ryan, whose fearless dry delivery struck a chord with the audience, especially her sarcastic commentary on the absurdity of escape rooms, paint and sip, and other modern distractions. Extra points for her outstanding oversized mullet.
South African Schalk Bezuidenhout was simply charming, with clever self-deprecating humour and an excellent sense of self—also a good option for those who prefer their comedy with less swearing.
Scotsman Connor Burns delivered a very typical comic set, riffing on his experiences visiting Australia, from visa entry forms to staying in Fremantle.
Rounding off the night was accomplished comedian Dave Thornton, whose witty observations on spelling and teenagers had the crowd in tears as the curtain came down.
A hilarious night out for comedy aficionados and neophytes alike, you can still catch this comedy extravaganza yourself when it returns to Regal Theatre on Wednesday, May 8 and Wednesday, May 15.
MELISSA MANN