Comedy Festival 2018: Damien Power serves up philosophy and hilarity in Violent Chaos Anyone? ★★★★

DEEP-thinking Queenslander Damien Power eventually runs out of road but not before combining philosophy and hilarity in brilliantly inimitable style.

IT says plenty about Damien Power’s ambition that the breakdown of Western civilisation is listed as the throwaway third topic he’ll be aiming to cover tonight.

Few comics can translate big ideas and genuinely insightful thoughts on the modern human condition into comedy as well as Power, hence the three Barry Award nominations on the trot in recent years.

And while this year’s hour might not quite match those efforts for cohesiveness and consistency, we’re still treated to a hilarious and exceptional hour.

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An early repeat of material from one of those nominated shows doesn’t bode particularly well, but Power justifies the recycle in fine style, challenging the audience to question exactly what it is they’re laughing at.

It’s when his curiosity and philosophical musings are to the fore that Power really soars. His theories on why we’ve become cynical about our national culture and what might happen if it was genuinely challenged by outside intervention are inspired.

Damien Power gives great food for thought in Violent Chaos Anyone?

Few do a better job of bemusement at how modern life and technology have changed us, and Power mocks gentrified nostalgia, cosseted western values and warped morality plays with unforgettable imagery and impish glee.

Alongside remarkably accessible takes on the degradation of modern existence, Power also riffs on the travails of a recent romantic relationship and his efforts to engage an emotionally distant father.

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More standard stand-up fodder to be sure, and while there’s plenty to relate to and enjoy within these threads, momentum meanders a little and eventually halts abruptly.

In hindsight it was a lot of subject matter to take on and for once Power’s reach may have exceeded his grasp, but if you like food for thought with your belly laughs Power continues to provide stand-up’s most deliciously balanced diet.

Damien Power, Violent Chaos Anyone?

ACMI Cube, Fed Square, City, until Apr 22.

comedyfestival.com.au