2Hoots Productions
When Jon Bennett‘s latest Fringe show, Ameri-can’t, hints at a performance about what the United States of America is incapable of getting back in control, that’s because what’s revealed isn’t too far from the truth. The reports he shows regarding gun control and limiting its use are spot on. And there are aspects he loves, namely the people and how lively the arts scene is here.
Even in 2024, there’s no denying the impact of the pandemic is still lingering around, and while some talents struggled to get by, he’s turned his experience into one rip-roaring, hilarious show that’s not without a message. Anyone who has experienced suicidal thoughts during this time should seek help, and his openness about it is truly eye-opening.
Thankfully, this comedian found hope. Although he thought that one-night stand with Gina would be just that, it became something else. This woman helped keep him sane during the 262 days in a country which would later on not welcome him back. With very little else to do, he played a lot of golf and look for other stuff to do to keep him sane.
By the time he returned to Snowtown, Australia to be with family, but the World Health Organisation and select individuals had other ideas. Travel restrictions were in effect and when various publications like The Sunday Times published the results from Milieu Insight, a market research survey from Singapore, to determine the classification of essential services and non-essential ones, not everyone agreed! When this entertainer saw that list, he questioned his purpose in life. Without the arts, what else is there to do? The medical profession can’t be considered better because nobody understood the virus and a fully deployable vaccine wasn’t ready.
Bennett could have criticised what’s wrong with this report, but didn’t. Instead, other talents did the job for him. They were livid and vocal about this unacceptable report, and I suspect there were other issues he was facing, which made him decide not to fight it. Ultimately, I think he was lonely, and he needed to be with Gina. Like his past shows, what’s offered in Ameri-can’t is sombre and enriched with humour that only this comedian can deliver. It sometimes goes fast, but this time, it’s in a pace that’ll leave audiences say wow.
The themes do not differ from other shows. One part concerns dealing with airport security (this version will leave you guffawing and hating what they’re like with foreigners). After seeing enough of his shows, it’s easy to spot which pictures and video clips he enjoys using time and time again. I don’t feel he’s running out of material, but is adding to why these memories are important. Although this country isn’t perfect, some immigrants still believe it’s a land of opportunity. As for whether that title continues to exist, that’s best left for scholars to debate.
Jon Bennett
LIVE standup at Send Help Comedy
Remaining Victoria Fringe Festival 2024 Shows:
- Aug 28 9:00 pm
- Aug 30 9:45 pm
- Aug 31 4:00 pm
- Sep 1 2:45 pm
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