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The Funny Tonne

Ben Russell

Ben Russell

    

Ben Russell’s show Ben Russell (wow isn’t that name a great coincidence!) might just be the most impactful performance I’ve seen.

This is Russell’s first hour of stripped back, traditional stand-up after years and years of character work. It would be hard to argue that it isn’t exactly what the medium should aim to be. We start with Russell’s childhood of being a first generation Australian to Texan parents (yeah, weird combo). His delivery and stage presence is perhaps second to none as we hear hilarious anecdotes and stories. But largely this show is about Russell’s alcohol addiction and the lowest point of his life. It’s pretty heavy stuff, but Russell flawlessly manages the balance between this seriousness and still being incredibly entertaining. Ben Russell is thrillingly witty, filled with lazer-sharp one liners. And it's also endearingly hopeful. It’s a testament to him and co-writer Maggie Looke for creating such a strong body of work. This is a special show that I will be thinking about for years to come.

Reviewed by Bella Jones

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