Melbourne International Comedy Festival review

In the Acknowledgement Of Country message played out before almost every Melbourne International Comedy Festival show, audiences are told of the Aboriginal people’s ‘rich history of storytelling and humour that inspires all Australians’.

Well, Gamilaraay man Dane Simpson is a living reminder of that – not least thanks to his witty opening skit recreating a stand-up gig 60,000 years ago.

The bulk of the show that follows continues that tradition: an entertaining collection of first-hand and family anecdotes from one of the most personable comedians in Australia.

His eccentric father, stuck in his peculiar ways, is an almost bottomless well of stories and takes a starring role – including overshadowing the bride and groom at Simpson’s recent wedding. Simpson Sr is also prone to cracking terrible puns, a few of which have made it into the show.

Frugal, blunt-talking mum also makes several appearances, as does his heavily-tattooed, hardcore brother, who seems the polar opposite of the Mr Likeable in front of us, cheerfully keen to entertain.

Simpson ventures into politics, but aims to persuade by charm – of which he has ample reserves – rather than anger. His contribution to the debate about Australia Day involves vintage footage of early celebrations that are so wildly inappropriate you’d hope no one today would want to be associated with.

It’s an important but brief detour into the wider world before returning to the subject that most obsesses him: the Simpsons family that’s even larger-than-life than its cartoon namesake.

Their exploits amuse him so much that it’s contagious. Simpson laughs freely at his own yarns, and that encourages the rest of us to join in. He’s optimistic, upbeat and effortlessly charming – and while there not be huge substance or emotional wallop behind his material, the comic offers a delightful hour of good-natured tales sure to lighten your mood.

• Dane Simpson: Always Was, Always Will Be... Funny ends its run at Melbourne Town Hall at 6pm tonight.

Review date: 10 Apr 2023
Reviewed by: Steve Bennett
Reviewed at: Melbourne International Comedy Festival