Tom Gleeson stepped onto the stage on the opening night of the 2024 Melbourne International Comedy Festival and thanked the audience, tongue-in-cheek of course, for taking a chance on a middle aged, white, rich male comedian.
It set the pace for the hour that followed in his new show Gear – an uproarious journey through the absurdities of modern life. This show will leave you both laughing and pondering the absurdities of the world around us.
With a career spanning more than two decades, Gleeson has established himself as a comedic powerhouse in Australia – earning acclaim for his stand-up performances and television appearances and best known for his role as host of the hit TV show Hard Quiz. Oh and Channel 10’s Taskmaster.
Gold Logie winning Gleeson is known for his razor-sharp wit and unapologetic humour, and Gear does not disappoint. Whether he’s dissecting the quirks of modern social norms or explaining why revenge is the most delicious dish in the world (served ice cold), Gleeson’s comedic prowess shines through, earning him well-deserved laughs and applause.
Having seen Gleeson at work several times now, both on stage and as part of the studio audience for Melbourne’s best free night out – taping of episodes of Hard Quizˆ – it is always a delight to see him interact with the audience with his rapid-fire acerbic delivery when answering absurd or rude questions.
Gear has been touring around Australia since late last year, and is on at the Comedy Theatre until Sunday 21 April. Tickets through Ticketek.
Rating: ★★★★½
