Review – Dandyman

Physical comedy is a bit of a poisoned chalice. Audiences have largely come to accept that jugglers are for children and adults are only meant to enjoy bitter, observational stand-up. Adult physical comedy is considered to be either antiquated (Buster Keaton) or unsophisticated (Mr. Bean). Daniel Oldaker, as Dandyman, is set to show us that the style still has bite aplenty.

Dandyman is a refined show that sells every gag, from air-guitar juggling to impromptu origami, with mischievous misdirection. Oldaker knows his routine and he knows it well, and readily incorporates audience participation, as well as interruptions and mishaps, into his act. The comedy is carefully composed, and paced with moments of poignancy, to build towards fruition with a ridiculous final gag, one involving a watermelon, which must have seemed like a bad idea at the time.

Dandyman is cheeky, clever and a whole mess of fun.