Presented by Steve Sheehan
Reviewed Friday 8th June 2012
Billed as “a surreal encounter with that part of the joke that gets little attention”, The Background Comedian is a beautiful, nuanced performance from Steven Sheehan in which he explores the anticipation of the punch line.
Sheehan’s gentle, almost apologetic demeanour is touchingly endearing, and it is a testament to his mastery of physical performance that he can tell entire stories with his face completely obscured. He accompanies himself, and his ‘jokes’, on piano, with familiar pieces from the repertoires of Liszt, Satie, Chopin and more.
Surreal, it certainly is, but glorious nonetheless. At 35 minutes long, “The Background Comedian” is short and sweet, but will leave you with a smile and a greater appreciation of what goes into creating a good pay-off.
Reviewed by Megan Doherty, Guest Cabaret Fringe Critic, Glam Adelaide.
Venue: Tuxedo Cat, 199-200 North Terrace, Adelaide
Season: to 10th June 2012
Duration: 35 min
Tickets: $12-$15
Bookings: BASS 13 12 45 or here
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