| 06 August 2011
Admission to a sacred place – the self-penned words of Ed Byrne. Although he was actually referring to, ahem, woman’s parts, it actually felt like we, as an audience, were being welcomed to his own sacred place, with his unique brand of observational comedy.
The EICC is a difficult venue for stand-up comics. A Fringe veteran like Ed is no doubt more used to smaller and darker rooms, and he said as such himself. Despite this, he adapts to his new surroundings with ease and a relentless and infectious energy as he bounds around the stage.
The show does touch on controversial topics, including religion and sexism, but he does it in such a charming manner that it would be impossible to take offence – he also offers very balanced views from all sides, and no one is alienated.
As a long term fan of Byrne, I have seen him on many panel shows, and there is always the worry that some of this material would be regurgitated – I’m pleased to say that he produced a wide range of material I had not heard, saving the audience from disappointment.
A major part of this new material comes from his 7-month -old son, and some hilarious anecdotes about how disgusting a baby is had the audience in stiches. The performance is intelligent and well-constructed, with all the jokes smoothly brought together in the final minutes, and it is with the great relief of a satisfied fan that I assure you that Ed Byrne is one comedian you should definitely see.
Crowd Pleaser, EICC, 3rd August, 7.40pm (65 minutes)
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