Although his comedy career technically kicked off in Canberra, it wasn’t until Daniel Connell arrived in Melbourne in 2011 that things really started to take off. That year, he performed in the comedy festival’s Comedy Zone show; for those who don’t know, the festival handpicks this line-up of emerging comedians it believes are representative of the next wave of Aussie comedy. With Connell, they really hit the nail on the head.
With a relaxed and laid-back stage presence that really puts the audience at ease — and a gift for working the crowd in a way that makes any picked-on individual think this is the start of a blossoming friendship with Connell — it’s no wonder that he’s got the Swiss Club packed to a brim for his new show, Gutless Wonder.
While many of the bits revolve around unexciting everyday occurrences like gender reveal parties, trips to the post office and married life, Connell masterfully spins them into clever yarns. He shines best when he breaks out his more morbid material; without giving too much away, a shocking bit evokes the memory of the ill-fated love story The Girl With the Green Ribbon.
Because of his somewhat unemotional and passive storytelling style, there’s not a huge build-up of tension to the punchline. While some people may crave that slow build-up to the comedic climax, Connell’s style lends the effect of the punchline being a lovely surprise nearly every time. It all seems incredibly effortless for Connell, and you’ll leave wishing he was one of your mates.
Want to know which shows have us LOLing in the aisles this year? Check out our guide to Melbourne International Comedy Festival 2022.