Presented by ALIST.COM.AU
Reviewed 15th February 2020
Steph Tisdell’s “Baby Beryl” takes on a conversational style of humour in a unique show that is different each time it runs.
The show is based around community and interaction. Tisdell brings in a loose structure that relies heavily on audience participation and ends with an interview with an audience member who wants to share a tale from their life.
The bulk of the tales and jokes were based upon recent experiences, including Tisdell’s first day in Adelaide for this year’s Fringe Festival. A general call back to Tisdell’s idea that she’s never met a baby named Beryl acted as the inspiration and context for the show but the remainder of the set came directly from what and who was available in the venue.
Tisdell was a relaxed presence on stage and a joy to watch. There was an infectious feel to the laughter that carried a strong sense of someone connecting in a sincere manner with their audience. The chilled environment was welcoming for the purpose of audience participation by allowing those who wanted to interact do just that.
The improv style based on the different audience members created a fun, unpredictable show and guaranteed each night is distinct. Tisdell’s casual approach to the structure was enjoyable and highly entertaining. Her laidback approach and openness provided a comfortable comedy environment, in which she was able to draw out some fascinating stories from people in the room.
The use of an interview in the second half of the show created a chat show atmosphere with Tisdell offering her platform in a hunt for important life stories. Tisdell still held control over the comedy while providing time and space for others to share. The experiences on display were varied and interesting.
Tisdell is performing her solo show and in other productions at the Garden of Unearthly Delight.
Reviewed by Alex Dunkin
Twitter: @AlexDunkin
Rating out of 5: 4
Venue: Spare Room, The Garden of
Unearthly Delights, Adelaide
Season: 14th February – 1st
March 2020
Duration: 60 mins
Tickets: $20.00-$30.00
Bookings: https://adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/steph-tisdell-baby-beryl-af2020
www.adelaidefringe.com.au
https://www.gardenofunearthlydelights.com.au/
https://www.stephtisdell.com/
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