OBSERVER: Dane Simpson 100% Hits
Dane Simpson is one of those people who are instantly likeable. You know that you’ll become lifelong friends if you were to meet the affable Simpson in real life.
In his Melbourne International Comedy Festival show Dane Simpson 100% Hits, right from the get-go, Simpson sets the audience up with “rules”.
“If you find something funny, obviously laugh. Like, get into it. Let’s fill this place with love and laughter.” And the audience enthusiastically obliges
As a comedian, Simpson nails an essay-going, happy-go-lucky charm as he presents a retrospective of his comedy career so far.
It’s been 10 years since Simpson stepped on stage to tell a joke and accidentally launched his new life.
Since then, Simpson has amassed a history of sold-out shows, Melbourne Comedy Festival gala appearances, and competed, along with his equally funny father, in The Amazing Race Australia.
A Gamilaraay man from Wagga Wagga, whose family has ties to the outback town of Walgett, Simpson mines his family history of being indigenous in country Australia for laughs.
Simpson pokes fun at their combined antics with a gentle style, but one full of laughs.
Like the one about Simpson’s soldier grandfather who stole a tank to make a beer run. Or his laser-eyed mother, who can stop grown men in their tracks if they cross her.
Bow, Simpson’s father, is a rich source of stories. Like the time he upstaged Simpson’s wedding by walking down the aisle before the bride.
Simpson doesn’t shy away from politics, using Australia Day as a forum for jests that pack a punch.
Through it all, Simpson looks like he can’t believe his luck, and the audience is happy to join him for the ride.
Until April 19 at the Victoria Hotel, Acacia Room.
comedyfestival.com.au
Review by Kathryn Keeble