Dane Buckley: Darling - Review

What to watch at Fringe! A review of Dane Buckley: Darling. 

There is so much to see at Edinburgh Fringe, and it can be difficult to know what to pick – but if you could only see one show, "Darling" is the one I'd recommend. Dane Buckley, as seen on "8 out of 10 Cats Does Countdown" and the hit podcast "Welcome to Hell", has brought a completely hilarious, endearing and cheeky show for his debut hour and it's an absolute must watch.

Dane is the only half Indian, half Irish, gay comedian (probably) out there and his debut hour is all about how he got there, celebrating the incredible women in his life. It's a joy to listen to his stories about his heritage, his Irish Mammy and his sisters, and he explores everything from his upbringing on a council estate to his days as a child model for Rice Krispies. He delivers each story with his trademark cheekiness; his ability to play with the crowd, to find a "B.O.B" (best on board) to flirt with and to make every single audience member feel involved and invited into his world is truly remarkable.

There aren't too many comedians who can make me cry with laughter, but Dane certainly can. Even when talking about difficult situations, such as the passing of his sister Joanne, he is able to find humour and warmth. He's so charming, quick witted, and comfortable on stage that it's hard to believe that this is his first hour, but this will be the first of many, I'm sure.

As if his brilliant comedic timing, impeccable accents and outstanding story-telling wasn't enough, the audience is also treated to a song – yes, he sings too! Dane and his dulcimer finish the show with a song all about his family, or his "tribe" as he puts it, and it's such a beautiful end to a laugh out loud show.

Seeing Dane Buckley live is exciting for so many reasons. His audience falls for him immediately, creating such a warm atmosphere, but you also get the feeling that you're watching something truly special; watching Dane is comparable to discovering a band just before their first number one album. You know how lucky you are to see him in an intimate venue, and you know you're going to be able to say, "I saw him first!" when he inevitably becomes a household name.

As someone who has been lucky enough to see Dane perform multiple times, it is an absolute joy to watch him go from strength to strength. If you enjoy a show which is varied, outrageous and completely hilarious, this is for you.

You can see Dane Buckley's "Darling" throughout Fringe at 6pm at Pleasance Courtyard – and I really recommend you do, darling.

Written by Tam Page

Posted by Mr. Tomney

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