FRINGEWORLD 2017 – Jez Watts: Smug Face (4 Stars)

Review by Kieran Eaton

Going to a TAFE classroom to watch a comedy show, why would you not have a smug face? I guess that is the irony that Perth comedian, Jez Watts is all about. This self-aware comic knows his limitations as a festival act, and plays to his strengths.

Watts takes us back to his Australian Army days – understanding that this revelation will surprise us, as he spends the first part of the show describing his love for recreational drugs.  Watts is all about living life to the full and that is why it is hard to categorise who he is. One thing is clear and that is that Watts loves comedy. His love for up-and-coming comedians on the Perth scene sees him giving the opportunity to open for Smug Face each night.

Opening this night is a young man by the name of Nic Monisse. This stylish man jokes about father issues and warms the crowd enough for them to be ready for Watts’ mad running into the audience so manically that he loses his breath! He is quick to make fun of this and settles into his routine, after a quick sip of water, of course! Even when Watts is ready, there is a manic energy about him – looking to feed off the crowd. This keenness to work with the audience adds to his charm.

With the varied life that Watts has lived, it’s hard to know what to expect from him but this clever comedian understands this and will help you on the journey.

 

When: 14th – 18th February 2017 | 8:00pm

Where: Noodle Palace | Fringe Central | PERTH

Tickets: $11 – $16

Info: Duration 50 minutes | Suitable 18+ | WA Artist

Link: https://fringeworld.com.au/whats_on/event/jez_watts_smug_face/e739f1f8-eef6-4754-8f37-f608b62d79d7/