Although presented as a concept show in the program, Dan Lee’s The Answer actually consists of a series of sporadic stand up routines.
There are a lot of good ideas here, much of which could be turned into solid material in the right hands. Dan’s initial appearance on stage is nervous and pacy, which undermines his ability to sell the ideas properly. Many of the ideas are delivered without much explanation, often with the assumption that the audience is clued into some obscure references.
The thing that really struck me about this show is that much of this material is delivered as straightforward stand up, whilst it really belongs in the realm of the absurd. This dislocation serves to undermine the potential of the ideas that should otherwise bubble through.
As the show draws to it’s end though the cohesion improves and Dan starts to hit some pace and delivers his material with increased confidence, which helps to sell the show.
At the moment this show isn’t working. Dan Lee strikes me as someone who has something to say but he just hasn’t found his voice as yet, or more accurately, the way to enunciate his voice.
For booking details go to the “Fringe website”:http://www.melbournefringe.com.au/season/2007/show/124/