Review: Ricky Gervais, Humanity, Massey Hall, July 16

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it’s been a long time since Ricky Gervais did a stand up tour and in that time we’ve seen three stints as Golden Globe host, a few moderately successful films and a few successful tv series. So life’s been good for the man. Which begs the question, in the world of observational comedy, can a man like Ricky still relate to the crowd?

The answer is a definite yes.

You might think I thought hard to pose such a question but the reality is that this was one of the topics among many during Gervais’s incredibly self aware and modern show this past weekend.

Armed with a pint, his infectious laughter and too many stories, Gervais put on a hilarious show that tackles his life, the art of the joke, tolerance and modern communication. Nothing is off limits for the comic but the beauty of his show is that he’ll tell you why nothing should be off limits.

I really enjoyed Ricky’s set. His jokes are built from elaborate stories and his punchlines come at you rapidly and often when you don’t expect it and definitely goes where you don’t think it’d go. Some might get put off by his incessant bragging about his success but frankly that’s all part of the act and his personality . Without it, some of his self deprecating jokes wouldn’t hold the same weight and it’s also refreshing to see someone take as many shots at himself as he does with others.

Obviously it goes without saying to catch him on tour. It might be awhile before that happens again.

Fun fact: Ricky Gervais once managed my favourite band Suede

Posted on by Ricky in Everything

About Ricky

Britpop lovin Chinaman, consumer of all things irrelevant. Toronto Raptors fan.