Sunday 9 August 2009

The Sliding Scale of Cynicism

The Sliding Scale of Cynicism The Mercat Bar (Venue 253) 22.15 8th - 29th August.


I have to say, my greatest disappointment was the lack of audience. This show really did deserve more people to watch it. And it would have made the world of difference to the performance.

John Purves opened the show and seriously, he is funny! The audience (all 7 of them, plus me) were well and truly welcomed, warmed up and laughing. Purves has talent and a smooth delivery, not only that, but his material is connected, something I love to see, particularly his well-timed use of repetition. Fabulous. Purves continued to keep the audience bouyant as compere throughout.

Jane Walker followed Purves. Her material was strong, and began the link with the title of the show - a little less happy, a bit more cynical. However, the problem was beginning to show regarding the lack of audience. Walker needed more people in that room. People were smiling along, but Walker's quieter delivery left no volume for the audience to laugh against. She has the skill, her delivery is well-timed and structured, it really is just that lack of audience that let her set down.

After Walker came special guest Scott Forbes (The Fabulous Furry Freakshow, Madogs Venue 368, 18.30 8th - 29th August). This guy is someone to truly watch out for. Bordering on the loopy, he was fast-paced, loud and energetic. In this brief guest spot, I got to see some hilarious moments, and will be making the effort to go and see his show.

Finally, Daniel Webster brought the cynicism down to it's darkest level. Unfortunately, although this sits well with the narrative of the show, he was the weakest link. His set was in many ways offensive and slow. Now I've heard on the grapevine that Webster has in fact been a finalist for various comedy awards, so I do give the benefit of the doubt and think to myself that perhaps he was just having a bad night. I do particularly dislike it when a comedian walks on stage with a half-drunk pint that s/he continues to drink from throughout the set. In my mind, if you're getting pissed in front of the audience, it makes it seem that you really aren't taking them, nor your role as an entertainer, seriously.

Overall, this show is well worth the 15 minute walk from Cowgate. It's part of PBH's Free Fringe, so you don't even have to pay for it, unless you want to pop some cash in the bucket as you leave. Purves, Walker and Webster have the potential to make this into a huge success. The premise is good, and they compliment each other well.

One to make the effort for in my humble opinion.

My vote: 3*

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