Reviewed on Saturday October 18 at the Concert Hall, Sydney Opera House
The irrepressibly charming Eddie Izzard hosted the Just For Laughs Gala at the Sydney Opera House, and what a host he was. Resplendent in high-heeled boots and sparkly red nail polish, the self-professed action transvestite’s stream-of-consciousness-style comedy was as rambling and hilarious as it was educational. Want a lesson on the history of the English monarchy? He’s your guy – though you’ll have to get there via God bitching about the Wi-Fi, and Steve the human sacrifice.
The first guest was Ronny Chieng, whose signature vitriol and criticism of his fellow human beings is as refreshing as it is stitch-inducing. New York-based Ted Alexandro had all the smugness of a man who has hit 45 years free of a wife and children. He was deeply, quietly funny – no gimmicks, just witty observations and anecdotes.
Reggie Watts was an interesting addition to the lineup. He’s a talented musician and performer, but his comedy seemed to be based around saying words incomprehensibly, which drew more nervous giggles than real laughs from the crowd. Sarah Kendall, in contrast, was non-stop funny as she shared anecdotes about Jaws III, hand jobs, playing tricks on strangers, and, um, calling a teacher the C-word.
Alonzo Bodden perfectly fit the mould of an American stand-up. He based his set around his strong opinions on all the big topics; homosexuals, African-Americans, Obamacare… but he did it all with such a generous and engaging attitude that he managed to keep the whole audience onside.
Rhys Darby is surprisingly physical onstage, and his not-so-true account of his time in the New Zealand Army had him shooting, flying, and making some very impressive laser gun noises.
As a final treat, Izzard revisited the eternally popular Death Star Canteen skit, and his ballad for the bravery of Mr. Stevens the canteen manager was the cherry on top of a stellar night of comedy.
4/5 stars
