This show belongs to the Adelaide Fringe 2026 season. This season is now over.

Vitruvian man with red nose, dunces cap and "I'm with stupid t shirt
Stand up performer in front of a decision wheel with numerous stories on it.
Stand up performer in front of a starry backdrop
Adelaide Fringe 2026

A Brief History of Human Stupidity

Join stand up philosopher and comedic storyteller Stephen Sheely as he talks his way through a randomly selected bunch of stories about the human fondness for doing regrettable, inexplicable, and just plain dumb stuff, often with hilarious consequences.

In the 18th century, Carl Linnaeus was the first to name us Homo Sapiens, literally meaning 'wise human.' Given recent events, if he tried that now he'd be lucky not to get done for false advertising. Let's face it; while we can occasionally be wise, we can also be mind bogglingly stupid. From tulips that cost as much as a house, through atomic vacuum cleaners to planking or licking door knobs, or whatever other idiotic social media trend has emerged in 2026, stories of stupidity are abundant throughout history and it's time to tell them.

Presented by: Stephen Sheely

Through a varied career as a university lecturer, professional philosopher, and stand up performer, Stephen Sheely has been talking for a living for over 40 years and shows no sign of stopping any time soon.
Comedy • Storytelling
New South Wales • SA Premiere

Suitability & warnings

Content rating: M
Coarse Language: Occasional, Strong
Sexual References: Occasional, Mild

Accessibility

 
High audio content

Presenter

Presented by: Stephen Sheely

Through a varied career as a university lecturer, professional philosopher, and stand up performer, Stephen Sheely has been talking for a living for over 40 years and shows no sign of stopping any time soon.