Mark Watson: The Infinite Show (Rating 5/5)
This is a show about empathy, what it is and whether it’s easy to feel. If that makes it sound like it’s going to be deeply introspective and downbeat, think again as this is anything other than a show to make you feel sad.
Watson celebrates life in all its forms and with all its quirks, even when he’s complaining about the excessive policing of the late register at his son’s school, or commenting on someone’s belief that the Titanic didn’t actually sink because it’s a different ship at the bottom of the ocean, he is still trying to understand people and see things from their side. Only the price of beer at Center Parcs is something he can’t find any possible justification for. That, and the incorrect spelling of both the words Center and Parcs.
Watson has a manic energy that drives his distinctive rapid delivery style, but he isn’t relying on this to carry the show. Every joke and observation is well crafted, and he also copes with, and incorporates, any audience interruption. He is adept at keeping the show flowing even as he admits to worrying that it could fall apart at any moment.
This evening, the audience included someone with Tourette’s syndrome. She became more than a spectator, and as well as offering some superbly timed, if possibly unintentional, comments – one of which made you wish she could be in the audience every evening – Watson made her feel part of the show, highlighting how good a comedian he is.
A fantastic performance. Definitely one to watch.
Pleasance Courtyard until 27 August
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