A first-rate comedian – surely obvious to all why this is a sell-out show!
We didn’t need any warm-up or settling – Larry Dean had us laughing from the outset. After all, his brilliance lies not only in his humour, but in his clear connection and engagement with the audience.
While so many of this year’s Fringe comedians have bravely sought to tackle hard-hitting issues, and though Larry certainly doesn’t shy away from controversial topics, he still presents his act in such a friendly and personable way.
We were treated to hilarious parodies of regional – and international – accents: the Birmingham accent being “like the doctor’s handwriting”; the Democrat vs Republican differing American drawls.
As he is known for, Dean was not afraid to talk about his own personal life – ranging from struggles with autism, issues with his partner, through to the relationship with his gran and her dementia. We could all relate to some of the episodes caricatured, but it was sensitive and compassionately done, while not being embarrassed about life’s difficult and more memorable moments.
Dean’s delivery was both warm and seductive – drawing us in – while being thoroughly ruthless and incisive at the very same time.
The comedian captured the love of the crowd – it leant on familiar themes, but with his celebrated sense to be self-deprecating too – which is when you know you can have confidence in the act. “Everyone is different, but all are unique!”
The event finished at 9.35pm.
Larry Dean: Dodger, Sunday 18th August, Monkey Barrel Comedy (Blair Street)
Continues every day: 8.30pm, until August 25th – £12
Suitability: 16+