For a few years now Brendon Burns has been one of the circuit's more analytical comedians. He has an almost academic interest in his profession, in humour and in particular what is or is not offensive. Following an article in the Guardian newspaper published during the run up to last year's Edinburgh fringel, Burns was very quick to respond robustly. The article made accusations that a new generation of comedians were simply using comedy to disguise genuine bigotry. Burns was interviewed and quoted in the article, but thought he was misrepresented and chose to write a full response that was published the next day. He was clearly riled.
Whether or not tonight's show was intentionally linked to that article and his reply I don't know, but the show I saw inside the purple cow was very much an expansion of those thoughts. Burns deals with a series of comedy taboos in turn: sexism, racism, paedophilia and religion. There are both awkward and easy laughs a plenty and there's analysis too, but don't be put off because it's an enjoyable ride.
And I think he really does this from the heart. He wants you to be offended maybe, but more importantly he wants you to understand that it's comedy and it's OK to laugh as long as you understand that. As long as you're in on the joke and not simply one of the bullies that he's on a mission to take down. I think this is different to other comedians with the "offensive" label: Jim Jefferies or Doug Stanhope for example. Although Burns perhaps labours the point at times, overstating that "it's irony" repeatedly.
This is a thoughtful show with a purpose. There's also a narrative running through which is not really apparent until the final crescendo. It's well rounded and polished and will certainly be worth checking out in Edinburgh. Particularly if you have found yourself laughing at material and then feeling awkward with yourself as to why you find it funny. Brendon Burns can set your mind at ease.
No comments:
Post a Comment