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Scotsgay review of HM

Comedy: Richard Herring – Hitler Moustache
Date: August 14th, 2009 Author: Joe
Category(s): Comedy: Richard Herring - Hitler Moustache

Comedy
*****
Richard Herring – Hitler Moustache
Underbelly

Following recent and utterly stupid accusations of racism from the usually sensible Guardian, there is a sense that Richard Herring has something to prove tonight: and that he most certainly did. Playing to a packed room, Herring wowed the audience with one of the greatest stand-up routines I have seen.

The premise of the show is itself inspired: to reclaim the toothbrush moustache from fascists, like the eponymous Hitler, and to give it back to comedians, like Charlie Chaplin. So, looking dapper in a smart black suit, and with his radical facial fuzz, Herring gets underway attacking fascism with the best weapon there is – laughter. Mocking the BNP in a way that is completely original, and beautifully constructed, he is able to demonstrate just how accomplished a stand-up he is. He brings his vast intelligence and wit to the fore, playing the audience well, and making off-the-cuff one-liners about prejudice in the Roman era. He also brings in some wonderfully snide snipes at The Guardian for the aforementioned defamation.

Herring has a brilliant eye for seeing how the world works, and a small routine about Michael Jackson is in no way inappropriate, but instead expose how destructive fame is. And it is here where he works best – using his natural silliness, and his sharp political streak, he is able to make the audience laugh and think at the same time. When the hour was up, it was a true shame he left the stage, as I – and the audience – would happily have watched much more. A nigh-on perfect show, which borders on the overused accolade of “comedy genius”.

JD