Presented by Token Events
Reviewed 28 February 2014
When comedian Sam Simmons asked the audience at the end of his show if it “was really that weird” because “it’s like a morgue in here?”; I had to agree with those in the audience who shouted “YES!” Yes Sam, your show Death of a Sails-man was a bit weird, actually really weird.
Sam, who grew up in Adelaide, also told the audience in the Idolize tent at the Gardenof Unearthly Delights, to go home and think about what he’s done because it’s his best work yet. So I did just that, although please note I have nothing to compare to as this was the first of his shows I’ve been to.
Laughter was intermittent throughout what could be described as an extremely quirky one-man monologue. This is not a stand-up comedy show. This is a man live on stage having a breakdown, singing, reflecting and joking with his sub-conscious.
Simmons relies too much on the use of swearing to garner laughs from the audience and his repetitive use of the c-word was borderline uncomfortable, even if he did apologise for all the swearing.
Topics covered included population growth, mental health and the numerous types of sausages but, the one that went down a treat, was Simmons’ jibes at Vodafone. It was so relevant and true and you couldn’t help but laugh at his antics about the telco.
Other highlights of the show were learning that dolphins are ‘the sexual deviants of the sea’ (not sharks apparently) and a song about a Grandma dying and heading into space. Apart from those moments, the show is a lot to get your head around and this type of humour won’t be for everyone.
I think Conan O’Brien said it best, when Simmons performed on his late-night show: “You’re a very strange fellow!”
Reviewed by Isabella Pittaway
Venue: Idolize, The Garden of Unearthly Delights
Season: 24 February – 16 March
Duration: 60 minutes
Tickets: $27.00 – $40.00
Bookings: Book through FringeTix online or phone 1300 621 255
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