★★★★
Some people like their comedians edgy and a little bit dangerous, others like them firmly in the non-threatening, cuddly corner. You’ll find David O’Doherty in that corner. For this year’s Melbourne International Comedy Festival he’s showcasing his ‘roadside spectator at the 1987 Tour De France’ look and apparently he’s had his thigh gap closed.
If you’ve been around stand-up comedy for a while, you’ve probably seen O’Doherty – or ‘the hairy Enya’ if you prefer – sitting down with his tiny keyboard across his knees. He regularly breaks out into something resembling song, my favourite being his epic recounting his experience of trying to ‘de-mouse’ his home which inevitably resulted in him becoming more mouse than man.
However, despite the iconic keyboard, it’s the avalanche of gags which keep the show bubbling along. O’Doherty’s been around the block a few times but he’s as quick and funny as ever, and just so damn likeable. He’s been a highlight of the Festival for years, mostly due to his charm and consistency. You always know you’ll get in some good laughs.
O’Doherty’s comedy is drawn from all over the place. Nothing seems off limits, although despite the seemingly chaotic jumble of topics and ideas he’s always firmly in control. Watch out for his recount of his bleach ‘accident’, and possibly his excellent Grand Designs song.
