Strolling onto the stage, ubiquitous comic Tom Gleeson delivers his endearing catch-cry, “Hello bitches!” It takes as little as two words for the mildly-cheeky Gleeson to have you hooked for 60 minutes. Put simply, Quality is as advertised.
“Stupid ideas thrive when they’re not discussed,” asserts Gleeson, minutes into the show. It’s an observation that bobs up more than once throughout the hour, serving as a loose motif. It’s an effective comedic launchpad, too, Gleeson quickly turning his attention to Australian politics. An expert in “making fun of who’s in charge”, he makes easy work of Tony Abbott, casting the PM as a bumbling buffoon. While it’s true that politicians make easy-targets, it takes a certain comedic finesse to shoot truly. Fortunately, Gleeson is more than capable, his commentary genuinely clever and well-considered. The show’s portion of political satire somehow culminates in an impression of poorly-buffered pornography, recreating the frustrations of dial-up internet. Indeed, Gleeson takes more than a few avenues in chasing comedic gold.
In a surprising twist, Gleeson also demonstrates disarming honesty when discussing his personal life. He opens up about his counselling sessions – in which all roads seem to lead to ‘cuddles’ – and draws laughs from his vulnerability. It comes out of nowhere and doesn’t always work as comic fodder, if only because Gleeson’s never had a standing as that kind of comedian. Quality is no less sharp or engaging as a result, though. If anything, the show’s twists and turns are a credit to Gleeson, who continues to evolve as a performer.
Before long, Gleeson returns his usual form, exploring the the mechanics of pissing in a lake, the pressures of not dying and the permanent responsibility of parenthood. At this point, there’s no speculation necessary: it’s a safe bet that Gleeson’s going to turn in an enjoyable hour of comedy. Eager to see some smart, gimmick-free stand-up? Perhaps someone from TV? Someone reliably good? Go Gleeson.
BY NICK MASON
