“Hilarious observations with a hint of antagonism from a wonderful comedian”
Sam Morrison brings a new hour of stand up to the Fringe, that takes a look at grief, sexuality, religion and so much more, all while relating that to several members of the animal kingdom. DUCK explores these issues with a solid scientific base, while providing hilarious insights into Morrison’s own life experiences.
Morrison is a fantastically watchable performer, who combines physicality with a deadpan stand up style to emphasise the jokes and build his comedy. He is incredibly funny, able to punch out deadpan moments of insecurity or antagonism that challenge us and make us laugh hard in the same moment. This performance really works to pull the audience onto his side, and we never leave once we are there. At one point he asks if we like him, and the honest answer is yes, of course we do. Morrison is an incredibly likable figure that you cannot help but listen to. He roams the stage, often finding distractions, which only adds to the likability, allowing him to build a relationship with the audience that only works to emphasise the humour throughout the show.
The performance is backed up by some intelligent and humourous writing. The set covers a range of topics from grief to therapy to the genitalia of ducks. These build to a notable conclusion, where Morrison almost finds some peace in themself, and in spite of themself. The use of a litany of scientific animal facts works to enhance the piece, teaching us about the non-conformity of other animals both making us realise our own intellect and the mad ways we have chosen to use it. There are also some moments of vulnerability, especially when the set covers grief and Morrison’s own insecurities or his ADHD, which adds further layers and a level of poignancy to the show. The set utlises Morrison’s ADHD effectively, allowing enough prompts or space to wander into a tangent or introduce new strands succinctly. It is factual, funny and fits well with a magnetic performance.
Morrison’s antagonism of the audience is a more improvised highlight of the show. His begging of us to laugh out loud has the desired effect and pushes the comic/audience relationship nicely. Yet still, in further development of the piece, there is room for Morrison to push even more. There is scope to utilise not only what is done by the audience, but what is said to them to continue pushing the boundaries and challenging/antagonizing us further.
DUCK is a stellar piece of stand up comedy from a star in the making. Whether a fan of slick writing or electric performative, this show isn’t one to sleep on. Hopefully Sam Morrison will grace Edinburgh again for years to come.
Show Listing: https://www.edfringe.com/
LISTINGS INFORMATION:
Venue: Billiard Room at Gilded Balloon Teviot
Dates: 5th – 31st August (Not 17th)
Time: 17.30
Ticket prices: £17.00/ concessions £16.00
Fringe box office: 0131 226 0000 / www.edfringe.com
Suitable for 18+ (Restriction)