[Cabaret/Music; Australian Premiere]

The Lab at Fool’s Paradise, Thu Feb 20

It was always going to be difficult to front up as the first act in a venue that is being rebooted after several years hiatus. The Victoria Square hub is back on the Fringe map in the guise of Fool’s Paradise.

Accordion Ryan did his best to whip up enthusiasm with a thin first night crowd but it was a struggle. Ryan dances and bops around the venue pumping out his mostly humorous accordion tunes with great energy and a clear passion for what he’s doing. He works hard at getting his audience involved and is keen to establish that this was ‘our show’, ‘our space.’ It all felt very inclusive.

Some original songs are included among the known hits, which had many singing along. An Australian hits compilation that included The Horses, You’re the Voice, Khe Sanh, and Nutbush City Limits was a highlight.

Ryan entertains between songs with comic banter and honest reflections about his troubadour life, and seems to be encouraging people to follow their dreams.

Like so many comedians he seems compelled to enter smutland for part of his show . There were a couple of songs that I’m sure he wouldn’t have played on Britain’s Got Talent! But the audience enjoyed them.

He’s a lovely guy with a very positive vibe. And the bigger crowd the better he’s gonna be. Go along and help him out!