HEAVY-META

Following the success of its first showcase at the beginning of term, the Birmingham Footnotes Comedy Society returned this week with a second instalment of comedy entertainment, Don’t be a Dickhead 2: Electric BOOgaloo.
Compered by the enthusiastic and engaging Matt Saull and Jack Toop, a variety of fresh, innovative and outrageous comedians were welcomed to the stage. As the name suggests this night had one rule only: don’t be a dickhead! In short, this meant no intimidation or heckling from the audience, with the idea of creating a friendly, encouraging atmosphere for students to deliver their comedy.

For many of the acts this was their first time performing, although you would not have thought it. Jacob Lovick took to the stage for the first time and was an immediate success with the audience. A constant wave of laughter could be heard throughout the entirety of his performance, as Lovick delivered anecdote after anecdote with a seemingly effortless charisma.

Chris Bates was another popular act, whose material on his ‘middle class’ upbringing, contrasted with his significantly downgraded student experiences, held resonance with many in the audience and was met with fervent applause.

In keeping with the Halloween theme of the season, the Bristol Pear was decorated in traditional spooky fashion. Carved pumpkins, dimmed lighting, creepy music and traditional black and orange decorations adorned the venue, which in itself was the perfect mix of comfortable, informal and relaxed. Some of the acts had even prepared themed stand-up material, and a clear favourite was comedy duo Chazz Redhead and Richard Higgs.

Both their Frankenstein-esque routine in the first half, and their twisted take on Black Swan as the night’s finale, left audience members giggling long after the act had finished. Judging from the raucous laughter and sell-out crowd, I am sure I am not the only one eagerly awaiting Don’t be a Dickhead 3.

Hollie Jones

(Source: redbrick.me)