Review – Lindsay Webb
Comedy is as much about failure as it is success. There’s a pretty fine line between dropping a joke that elicits knee slapping chortles, and one that causes audible groans. Or even worse, complete indifference. New material night at Rhino Room is all about being a part of that experience, and it doesn’t often fail.
Queensland native Lindsay Webb hosted and was excellent throughout. He spent most of his time having casual chats with the audience, and while I would have loved a chance to see some of his written material, his off-the-cuff back and forth with the entire front row proved hilariously spontaneous. A Thursday night in the middle of winter meant the audience was sometimes as cold as the weather, but Webb never missed a beat.
The local talent offered something a little less reliable. Highlights included self-professed bogan Marc Ryan, and Tim Witt’s erudite deconstruction of Fatman Scoop lyrics. The night hit some considerable lows courtesy of a hideous rape joke from Josh Robertson, and “special guest” Bruno Lucia spending 15 minutes ad-libbing jokes he’d written on his phone before finally and mercifully departing.
Adelaide Comedy puts shows on every week of the year, and new material night gives comics a chance to hone their craft. You might get as many flat-liners as funnies, but if you’re willing to take a punt you’ll also get some real gems from a solid roster of comedians. And if your host is anywhere near as good as Lindsay Webb then you’ll go home with some genuine belly aches having seen one of Australia’s best.
