Laughter (almost) made the earth move at the Iveagh Gardens this weekend as a bunch of comedy acts descended on the quiet Dublin park for a comedy festival, writes BRIAN BOYD
DUBLIN’S “SECRET Garden” was transformed into a comedic fun-fair over the weekend as the Iveagh Gardens hosted the Vodafone Comedy Festival. Some 20,000 people soaked up the sun’s rays and the best of Irish and international stand-up in a pastoral background far removed from the usual dark surrounds of a comedy festival.
Four fully seated venues were erected, with shows running from mid-afternoon to late at night from Thursday to Sunday. Dotted around the beautifully manicured gardens were bars, food stalls and novelty attractions as street performers juggled, danced and entertained the crowds – with live musicians adding to the festive atmosphere. The thousands of attendees typically arrived early and stayed late each day to make the most of the great set-up.
With the weekend a sell-out, there were rave reviews for Jason Byrne and Tommy Tiernan, but the main excitement was saved for previously unknown international acts such as Garfunkel and Oates, Tim and Eric, Reggie Watts and Brody Stevens – most of whom were making their Irish debut, and were a real revelation to an Irish audience.
“What I keep hearing from people this weekend is just how good the atmosphere has been – not just at the shows but around the whole Iveagh Gardens,” said the festival’s director Bren Berry. “Vodaphone put a lot of time and effort and money into making the gardens look stunning and the line-up has gone down really well not just with audiences but with the performers themselves, who have all been rushing in to catch other acts when their own shows are finished. I think we’ve blended the festival beautifully into this great resource right here in the heart of the city. There’s waterfalls, sculptures, great open-air areas and I’m just thrilled by how well the weekend has gone for everyone.”
Seven comedians walk into a garden . ..
JASON BYRNE
How was your Comedy Carnival weekend?
Sweaty. Hot. Sweaty.
Review your show for us
Material ready but none used. This was because of psychotic Canadians and a bewildered scientist from Cavan in the audience who distracted me.
Your comedy hero?
That can only ever be Tommy Cooper.
Favourite comedy festival?
I’ve done them all so I speak from experience and can put them in order for you: Iveagh Gardens, Kilkenny, Edinburgh, Melbourne, Montreal.
Best newcomer?
Saw this great husky voiced English comic at Kilkenny this year. Reminded me of Johnny Vegas. Loved him. Can’t remember his name though. [It’s Nick Helm]
FRED COOKE
How was your weekend?
I’m from Newbridge so I feel really cosy here in the Iveagh Gardens. It’s just been fantastic – I’m delighted to be here.
Review your show for us
I haven’t done it yet but I’d say it will be my best ever performance.
Who are you most looking forward to seeing?
Garfunkel and Oates are a female folk-comedy duo from America. I’m on the same bill as them tonight so I can’t wait.
Your comedy hero?
There’s a comedian called Martin Short who had a character called Jiminy Glick who I absolutely adore. Tommy Tiernan and Richard Pryor are also up there for me.
Favourite Comedy Festival?
I’m not just saying this, but I think Iveagh Gardens is the best comedy festival in the world.
Best newcomer?
A young guy from Cork called Chris Kent.
THE NUALAS
How was your weekend?
We love the Iveagh Gardens. They’ve transformed it beautifully for the comedy weekend.
Review your show for us
The sandwiches weren’t great beforehand – the white bread could have been a bit crisper. That was on our mind all during our set and did distract us a bit to be honest.
Your comedy hero?
Jason Byrne. He’s a ride. And we love his gay sense of humour.
Any Nuala groupies around?
Yes, Auntie Margaret and a young addict called Liam.
Your ideal fantasy Nuala?
Rachel Allen.
BUZZ VODA
How was it for you?
Fantastic. I was telling people they would get free drink if they knocked over some ducks with a ball. If they managed to do it I would give them a tea-bag and tell them to put the kettle on.
Who have you seen performing?
I saw two great shows, Reggie Watts and Andrew Maxwell.
Your comedy hero?
Peter Sellers
Strangest thing you heard all weekend?
Someone telling me I looked like Gary Glitter.
SISTER SHORTY
How was your weekend?
Amazing. Everyone has been in such high sprits. I was praying for good weather and we got it.
What’s your job here?
I go around the Gardens with my car which doubles up as a sound system. I hit the music and challenge people to a breakdance battle.
Favourite comedy festival?
This is my first ever one!
Your comedy hero?
Maeve Higgins is just lovely.
Best newcomer?
Ardal O’Hanlon. What do you mean he’s not a new act? He’s new to me! They’ve told me if it’s not too jammed,I can stand at the back of his gig later on.
