Observational comedy is one of the most popular current trends in stand-up following Michael McIntyre’s blazing success. Krista Bonello Rutter Giappone answers a few questions about the genre.
The 16th instalment of the XFM Stand-Up Comedy Show is just around the corner. This time around, LOL Productions are offering some of the best in observational comedy – one of the most popular current trends in stand-up following Michael McIntyre’s blazing success.
At its best, observational comedy has the capacity to overturn assumptions and reveal the absurdity of things we take for granted- Krista Bonello Rutter Giappone
What is observational comedy?
Identifying the origins of observational comedy is difficult, but perhaps its most recognisable early proponent is Dave Allen. In the 1970s, probably the most famous phase of his career, Allen combined laid-back storytelling skills with a sharp uncompromising hard edge, fostering a sense of camaraderie that belied the unsettling nature of his observations.
Observational comedy does precisely what its name suggests – relate the familiar and ‘true’, in ways that make one perceive them differently. At its best, it has the capacity to overturn assumptions and reveal the absurdity of things we take for granted – at the least, it provokes the laughter of recognition.
Are the comedians appearing in the XFM show as good as Michael McIntyre?
They’re different. The observational mode is not a narrow subgenre of stand-up – attitude, personality and persona, choice of material, are all significant factors. McIntyre’s success did, however, push observational comedy up in popularity-ratings, encouraging young comedians to try their hand.
So, how are they different?
Joel Dommett harps on the chord of the disarmingly honest and innocent – his material possesses a personal touch; and whether going for the poignant or the ridiculous, he daubs it all with a winning sweetness, eminently likable.
Mickey D is gregarious, challengingly forthright and mercifully free of affectation – his satire may seem crude, but its aim is right on (both on the mark, and ultimately politically correct). A dynamic and powerful stage-presence means he always takes the audience with him.
Jason John Whitehead merges observation with the joke format, putting his own quirky spin on things with a Steve Wright-like flair for unexpected and irresistibly funny punchlines. Whitehead’s skill for audience-interaction makes his a thrilling act to watch.
Where have we seen them before, or where else may we see them?
Dommett has gigged extensively, and won a number of competitions, including Stand up and Coming New Act of 2008. He has also appeared on E4’s Skins and ITV’s Teenage Kicks.
Mickey D has stormed his native Australia, and he was voted Best International guest two years running by the NZ comedy guild. His talents are versatile – he has faced a diversity of audiences, from Edinburgh’s demanding comedy-scouts and comedy audiences around the world, to children at kids’ festivals. He is the creator and host of The Phatcave – the late night comedy show and comedians’ comedy-club, born out of the Edinburgh Festival.
Canadian comedian Whitehead has appeared in several TV-shows in the UK and Canada, and has played many of the best-known comedy-venues around the world.
His talent received resounding recognition when he took home the coveted BBC Comedy Award in 2000; he has also been shortlisted for an Edinburgh Writers Guild Award and broken the ticket sales record for Camden Fringe Festival.
In addition to the stand-up, there will be an art exhibition by Ed Schembri and a retro photo booth where one can take a free LOL Productions souvenir home.
Tickets are on sale for the September 24 or 25 shows from www.laughoutloud.com.mt/bookings or from King and Ecco shoe shops, San Ġwann, Valletta, and Bay Street, or Cleland and Souchet at Portomaso.
The shows take place at the Oracle Conference Centre, Dolmen Resort Hotel, Qawra. Transport from Spinola to the venue is available at €4 return; to book a place e-mail info@laughoutloud.com.mt.