James Metcalf on the fictionality of the latest archaeological page-turners
Stephen Puddicombe looks at the unusual appeal of Samuel Beckett's Waiting for Godot
Ciaran Rafferty investigates the science of book classification
York students have really accepted Dan Nightingale as an invaluable compere. Although it goes further than this, because Nightingale, I feel it has to be said, is a genius. He could draw blood from a stone. At recent comedy nights at Wentworth, the audience have been more than a bit lacklustre; whipping up excitement is no small achievement. What is Nightingale’s secret?
I think he has discovered the only thing audiences at comedy nights really want to see: insult humour, mixed with sexual innuendo. He is masterful at finding members of the audience to not necessarily pick but focus on. A girl’s belt buckle, for instance, was enough material for a running gag.The audience responds really well to Nightingale, and deservedly so, but it always means that when the first act comes on, the audience never knows what to make of the change of comedic style.
Lay back and enjoy the comedy, no matter what style.
Sean Moran was hilarious, and he has been described as “naturally funny” (The List) which is evident immediately. He received a decent reaction but maybe the audience had not drunk enough yet, or were still pining for Nightingale to return and condemn York St John students again for taking courses in 'colouring in'. Moran, however, reminded me of Russell Howard: a quirky, child-like stance but who comes out with the most surreal (and funny) observations and comments. A great start to the night, but as soon as Moran walked off, you saw the disappointment in his face at the stillness of the audience.
The attitude to Seymour Mace was the complete antithesis, before he even spoke. What a difference an interval made. Mace, armed with low self-esteem and an engaging stage presence, was highly original and looked comfortable in front of this tough crowd. Recalling arguments with fictitious girlfriends and admitting his inadequate knowledge of certain sexual positions gave him a wonderful set based on self-condemnation but the complete confidence to talk about it. His final act on stage as well was masterly: playing a Gladys Knight song and pretending he was one of the Pips.
A fantastic night of extraordinary comedy, but my only criticism is the audience are too restrained. Lay back and enjoy the comedy, no matter what style.
You must log in to submit a comment.
