ED BYRNE’S current show ‘Spoiler Alert’ plays on the notion that his children are spoilt – and his performance at Redditch’s Palace on October 12 hit some home truths too.
The examples he uses such as back garden trampolines and flavoured squash brought home an uncomfortable truth that, as a father of two myself, perhaps my children are also spoilt compared to the childhood I had. A feeling he plays on with great comedic effect over this show which lasts well over an hour.
The brilliance in which Byrne delivers his stories shows a comic at the top of his game and the inevitable Donald Trump routine was well thought out and delivered. He admits himself that this subject is such a rich seam for comedians at the moment.
Byrne was well supported at the show at the Palace by little-known Canadian comic Paul Myrehaug, who warmed the crowed up beautifully with his set, not least his routine about the zoo which kept the audience well amused with the punch line and the constant back references throughout the set. Byrne himself even referenced it during his routine!
In my opinion, a sign of a good comedian is one who appeals to all ages and, looking around the theatre, this can certainly be said of Byrne. This was his only date in Redditch but, if you get the opportunity to catch his show elsewhere, then I recommend it.
Dave Parsons
