Joz Norris: Blink

“How many of you understand the joke?”

Joz Norris: Blink

A dangerous question to ask an audience when you’re an absurdist former comedian turned ”legendary magician”, and one I was constantly grappling with throughout the show.

Do I understand the joke? What even was the joke? 

Throughout the performance you could divide the audience into two groups. One group was immediately down with what Joz was offering, and some were in absolute stitches. The second group, where I unfortunately found myself, seemed completely lost at what was going on, laughing only occasionally when something hit just right. 

That isn’t to say Joz lacks talent. He possesses a chaotic jittery energy, charming personality, voice as smooth as hot chocolate, and his eyes really display the joy he has for the craft. It just sadly wasn't enough for me.

Having said that, although (personally) infrequent, there were times when the humour hit with impact. While some gags outstayed their welcome, their concept was really solid, and the initial delivery was flawless. For instance, after a particularly Willy Wonka-esque nightmare scene, the last 5-10 minutes of the show was really well executed and had me belly laughing. I also really enjoyed Joz's interactions with Ben, his stagehand. 

Blink has left me conflicted. On the one hand, I could see that there were members of the audience who were having a great time. Yet, I felt completely isolated from the joke. I didn’t understand it, and I don’t think I will. Instinctively I dislike the show, but observationally the evidence suggests that it’s good. Blink is definitely going to be down to how much abstract absurdity you like with your humour, and this is one of those reviews where I’ll really emphasise its subjectivity.

I’ll end on two other out-of-context quotes that really stood out to me during the hour. 

“Taking people’s money to do whatever the fuck I want”

And 

“The show doesn’t work” 

Certainly, it seemed as though Joz was doing exactly what he wanted, and having a blast doing it. But does the show work? For some, it definitely will, and if you are happy seeing Joz doing whatever the fuck he wants, then Blink is going to be great for you. His shows are selling out fast though so if this sounds like your jam, get in quick!


Read our interview with Joz Norris here

For tickets and more information, visit edfringe.com 

Header Image Credit: Provided

Author

Tom Inniss

Tom Inniss Voice Team

Tom is the Editor of Voice. He is a politics graduate and holds a masters in journalism, with particular interest in youth political engagement and technology. He is also a mentor to our Voice Contributors, and champions our festivals programme, including the reporter team at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

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