Review – Stephen K Amos: What Does the K Stand for?

Stephen K Amos has returned for his sixth run to the Adelaide Fringe, and it is clear that neither he, nor his audience, are keen for him to stop. Delivering a fresh batch of recently whipped-up material, with a clipboard in hand and a tick or a cross for each jokes’ success, Amos, like the rest of the world, has descended on our ‘village’ to have some fun. With eloquence and wit, Amos tackles everyday social issues from racism and identity to puberty and heartbreak, all the while building to his reveal of this elusive K.

Amos shines in his audience interactions, and his ability to laugh at his own jokes. The way he responds to audience comments reveals his sharp wit and his endearing charm. “I’m gonna fucking get through this show,” he says, doubled over the microphone, wiping tears from his eyes. The audience loved him and were not afraid to share their love, and reveal their bogan-ness (whether accidentally or ironically), and Amos was not afraid to run with it: “This is turning into the weirdest gig I’ve ever done.”

A highlight was his response to the hand that shot up when he asked for a father and son to discuss the horrors and humiliations of puberty. What he got was not what he bargained for: “We’re a non-traditional family,” the volunteer shouted, “I’m 34, and he’s 35.” Amos could hardly contain himself, “Oh, thank you, comedy gods.” Of course, having a brilliant audience is not essential to enjoying Amos, whose observations about his family, the class stereotypes homeland and Australia, his tales of heartbreak, and his relationship with Adele, are all pants-splittingly funny.

Amos is a fringe favourite for a reason, so do yourself a favour, and go find out what the K stands for!