|
|
|
|
'Stand-O-Rama' is a show organised by Oxford University's Stand-Up Comedy Society to showcase local talent and London comedians, with a different line-up every night. The beginning to this, the first night, was so shambolic as to be almost charming. Mistress of ceremonies Josie Long prodded the 'humorous sound effects' box in the corner until it shut up, then wandered onto stage to take a poll of the fourteen members of the audience as to whether there were enough people watching to make it worth carrying on. This was either completely deadpan self-deprecating irony, or a genuinely unprepossessing start to a comedy show. Fortunately things picked up. With a ladette stage persona somewhat reminiscent of DJ Sarah Cox, Ms. Long hosted a couple of audience participation warm-up games, including the 'Fisherman's Friend Suck-Off Challenge', before introducing the first act, Oxford's James Harris. His rambling, pun-heavy set induced nearly as many groans as laughs, but was delivered and received well. After more unfocussed humour from Josie Long, and a brief and somewhat puzzling interlude involving 'Danny Larusso' (star of 'Karate Kid' I, II and III, but not IV), the London comedian took the stage. James Dowdeswell gave a confident and likeable performance, mixing gentle banter with the audience, impersonation and quirky personal humour. The intimacy of the venue and the small audience seemed to suit him well, and the audience clearly enjoyed themselves. Overall,
like going to see a local band live, the friendly atmosphere and
immediacy went some way to making up for a less slick and packaged
product.
These portfolio nights are always going to be something of a gamble,
but if
the prospect of catching comedy stars in the making seems worth the
risk,
why not catch a night of 'Stand-O-Rama'? After all, as they point
out, it's Alex Williams 27/11/01 |