It’s a warm Adelaide evening (after just coming out of a six day heatwave), the buzz of the Fringe in the air, and a comedy show that promises to be a highlight of your festival experience. We KNOW we’re in for something major, especially after the media hype around one of his shows earlier in the run, we KNOW it’s a show that’s going to go places that some comedians dare not go, past the regular precious man-made barriers & boundaries. That’s exactly what Amos Gill delivers (boundary pushing) with his latest spectacle, Going Down Swinging… Please remember it’s COMEDY! Set in the heart of the city’s vibrant arts scene in Gluttony’s May Wirth venue, Gill’s show is a masterclass in stand-up comedy, blending razor-sharp wit with anecdotes that are as hilarious as they are relatable.
The Setting
The Adelaide Fringe, for those uninitiated, is a cultural whirlwind, a celebration of arts that transforms the city into a playground for performers and audiences alike. Amidst this backdrop, Amos Gill, a local hero turned international comedy sensation, returns to his roots with a bang.
Be prepared, this comedy is NOT for everyone, someone will most probably get ‘offended’, but in defence… you can’t seem to get out of bed these days without offending someone. Please do not go to see comedy (or art actually) if you don’t enjoy being provoked. Art SHOULD Provoke and Unsettle.
FACT: If you don’t enjoy Taylor Swift’s music, don’t go to her concert. But it doesn’t take away from the truth of her being talented. Simple.
FACT: If you don’t like unsettling comedy, don’t go and see Amos Gill. But it doesn’t take away the fact that he’s still a talented and funny comedian. SIMPLE!
The Performance
As the title of the show suggest, Gill is ‘Going Down Swinging’ AND NOTHING is off limits… He goes there, where now many comedians fear to tread. From the get-go, Gill’s comfort and charisma on stage are undeniable. He navigates through topics with the ease of a seasoned pro, making light of everything from everyday annoyances to the absurdities of modern life. His delivery is impeccable, timing punchlines to perfection and often leaving the audience in stitches.
The Highlights
Several standout moments encapsulate the essence of Going Down Swinging. Gill’s storytelling prowess shines as he recounts tales from his personal life, each more entertaining than the last. Whether he’s discussing his adventures overseas or the peculiarities of coming back home, Gill finds the humor in his experiences, making them universally enjoyable.
One particularly memorable bit involves an ex-girlfriend that goes awry in the most unexpected ways. Gill’s ability to paint a vivid picture with his words, all while navigating the twists and turns of his narrative, is a testament to his skills as a storyteller and comedian.
The Verdict
Amos Gill’s Going Down Swinging is a triumph, a show that encapsulates the spirit of the Adelaide Fringe while showcasing the comedic talents of one of Australia’s finest. It’s a reminder of the power of live comedy to connect, entertain, and make sense of the world around us.
For those lucky enough to catch the show, it’s an unforgettable experience filled with laughter and light-heartedness. And for Amos Gill, it’s a triumphant homecoming, a celebration of his comedic journey, and a sign of even greater things to come. If you have the chance, don’t miss out on this Fringe highlight. It’s a performance that truly goes down swinging, in the best way possible. Turns out ‘White, Straight Men’ can be VERY FUNNY! Keep on swinging Amos, it’s hilarious and we NEED to laugh 🙂
The score: FIVE VERY HILARIOUS STARS *****
Tickets to his final shows for Adelaide Fringe 2024! 🙂
