FRINGEWORLD 2017 – Classic Stanley (4.5 stars)

Review by Laura Money

It is very difficult to describe an Andrew Stanley gig. Firstly, I’d like to point out that this is my first time seeing the popular comedian – I am probably in the minority. So what is it that keeps drawing people back? Stanley is like no other – he doesn’t really do any prepared material, rather relies on his uncanny ability to draw out the weird parts of his audience’s lives.

Like most comedy acts in a festival, Stanley has a support act. Christopher Macarthur Boyd (isn’t that one of the most Scottish names you’ve ever heard?) opens describing himself as a starter. He acknowledges that we came for steak (Stanley) and are offered toast first (Macarthur Boyd.) His brand of hipster comedy is great and I think that many people will gladly order toast off the menu next time.

Stanley laughs backstage at the antics of Macarthur Boyd and then bounds onto the stage. He introduces himself to the crowd, and then introduces the crowd to each other. It’s like a huge party where everyone is getting to know each other. Stanley works out who else is from Ireland, who is from Australia and then a little further. He finds out about people’s relationships, jobs, desires, and everything in between! Every answer is fodder for Stanley, as he concocts hilarious backstories for each of the people he singles out.

It all culminates with a couple being put to the test onstage – how well do they really know each other? At the end of the show, Macarthur Boyd returns with the highlights of the evening – in flip book form! Like I said, Stanley’s material is non-existent, but his quick-wittedness and charm make for a naturally hilarious comedian. Go more than once – it is never the same!

 

When: 14th – 19th February 2017 | 7:00pm

Where: The Black Flamingo | The Pleasure Garden | PERTH

Tickets: $16 – $21

Info: Duration 55 minutes | Recommended 15+

Link: https://fringeworld.com.au/whats_on/event/classic_stanley/f5ea161b-bbee-441b-a7cf-1d87d3346d3c/