Presented by Paul Dabek
Reviewed 13 February 2016
Paul Dabek must truly hate children because so much of the comedy in this children’s show is aimed at the parents and they’re often laughing harder than the kids.
Dabek’s wit is faster than his slight of hand. From snappy puns and pop culture references to priceless insults, he has a witticism for every occasion and knows how to work his audience. He even does magic, although the show itself is pure magic!
Dabek is, in fact, an award-winning magician and he sets himself the task of including as many of the young audience members in the show as possible. In what has to be his biggest trick, this neither slows the pace nor becomes anything unruly.
He performs his magic up close, with the children – some as young as four – assisting. On guitar, local musician Tom McGrath accompanies the antics effectively. It’s a nice touch.
Throw in a couple of comedy songs and Dabek soon becomes a one-man variety show for all ages. The young teens in the crowd enjoyed themselves as much as the kids and adults. The I Hate Children Children’s Show is an hour of absolute enjoyment that will please, surprise, wow and win you over.
Reviewed by Rod Lewis
Twitter: @StrtegicRetweet
Rating (out of 5): 5
Venue: The Speakeasy, Gluttony
Season: 13 February – 14 March 2016
Duration: 1 hour
Tickets: $18 – $20
Bookings: Book through FringeTix online or at a FringeTix box office (booking fees apply)