When uncompromising comedian Ian Cognito tragically died onstage earlier this month, various commentators mourned the loss of an entire breed of perverse performer who resists primetime-friendly rules. There are still a few around though. Most notably Simon Munnery, on formidable form in his unusually accessible show, The Wreath.
The title comes from a line Munnery coined when fellow clown Sean Hughes died: “I went to a funeral the other day. Caught the wreath…”
As well as reflecting on mortality he cogitates on the unique nature of jokes. Much of his set is taken up with a philosophical account of his job in a chicken factory making ends meet. He became obsessed with his commute.
There is something almost poetically mundane about his routine, perpetually waking before dawn and getting one over on the sun.
Another highlight is his recollection of online banter with comedian Boothby Graffoe, echoing Baddiel and Newman’s bickering History Today professors.
But Munnery is a true one-off, part entertainer, part outsider artist. The Wreath is occasionally rough-hewn, yet a vital reminder that comedy does not have to come in polished screen-shaped packages.
Until Saturday (020 7478 0100, sohotheatre.com)
