Review by Barrie Morgan

You only have to look at Charlie O'Connor to appreciate how interesting he is. For those of you who are unsure, he looks like the Axl Rose of Tralee, complete with painted fingernails and skin tight leggings. Thankfully he has the comedy to match his garb and throughout his debut hour he weaves a mystical tale of clowning, Abba and pomp to keep you fixated. You might wonder where he'll be taking you next but given the comic’s penchant for misdirection and the surreal, you'll probably be wrong.

Despite O'Connor's effeminate appearance and theatrical gesticulations it's the variety and ambition on display that really impress. There are knob gags, musical numbers, audience participation, anecdotal comedy as well as a few other surprises in store. It's big, bold and a little out there. As a debut show it's a perfect introduction to O'Connor's world, so can only be considered a success, but the amount of variety on display may leave you feeling even more confused about who he is as an artist. O'Connor's an enigma wrapped in a conundrum so it may be a few years before we really get a feel for his true comedic essence.

Personally speaking, from the hour spent in O'Connor's company he is a warm and likeable presence and does a great job at guiding the audience through his set. He never seeks to alienate the crowd, despite starting his set with quite an intimate photo of his genitals. As a structuring technique it works well as it draws a line under his masculinity from the very start, almost literally, and sets the bar for the rest of the set. O'Connor's about to let it all hang out and you can take it or leave it. There will be people who will not enjoy the performance due to this mentality but this adds to the charm for others. It's a fine line sometimes and one which O'Connor seems prepared to walk.

O'Connor's musical songwriting skills are a highlight and although the show offers more variety than some venues it never really hits the hilarious high-notes. It's amusing, welcoming and an accomplished debut from a talent we're sure to see more from.

Review date: 5 Aug 2014
Reviewed by: Barrie Morgan
Reviewed at: Underbelly Cowgate