PAUL MCDERMOTT - PLUS ONE
Rhino Room
Until 13 Mar 2021

Review by Doug Phillips

The reviews for all of Paul McDermott’s recent shows have been full of praise and topped with 5-Star ratings – and this one is no different.

The praise and stars are well deserved, though. His energy and attitude on stage make it hard to believe that McDermott is almost 60 now, and he’s probably in the best form of his career so far. His voice is strong, his wit is sharp, and he seems to be enjoying himself more than ever.

When it comes to comedy, McDermott is ever the master craftsman. From his setting of the subconscious tone before curtain, to his carefully constructed jokes that are expertly delivered to feel effortless. McDermott and his cohort hit the stage loud and fast and they don’t let up.

McDermott’s current show at Adelaide’s iconic Rhino Room is (as he himself confesses) written for audiences who have experienced much harsher restrictions during COVID-19 than us lucky buggers in Adelaide. This doesn’t diminish the hilarity at all though, with some of McDermott’s funniest material coming from his take on Adelaideans and our very cavalier attitude to COVID-Protocol.

As one of the country’s most fearless Lefties, McDermott takes some big swipes at the likes of our beleaguered PM and AG, with hilariously brutal wit and a succinct summing up of how so many feel about it all.

The elderly cop some hits, as do celebrity idiots. No-one’s safe, including the fans in the audience.

Accompanied by the extremely talented Glenn Moorhouse, who’s vocal work and guitar playing is in perfect synch with McDermott’s style, this pair perform a polished, funny, and utterly entertaining evening of song and humour.

You won’t want it to end. You won’t want to leave. And you shouldn’t – leave that is. Trust me, stick around the Rhino Room vicinity after the show. Get your tickets now though, they’re selling fast.

Rating: 5 stars (out of 5)