"Jack Dee Live at the Apollo" (2004) TV series 2004-????

User Rating:

7.6/10   

Seasons:

1 | 2 | 3 | 4

Release Date:

6 September 2004 (UK)

Genre:

Comedy

Awards:

1 nomination

Cast

Jack Dee	...	Himself - Host (12 episodes, 2004-2007)
Peter Dickson	...	Himself - Announcer (12 episodes, 2007-2009)
Patrick Allen	...	Himself - Announcer (11 episodes, 2004-2005)

Also Known As:

"Live at the Apollo" (UK) (new title)

Country:

UK

Language:

English

Color:

Color

Sound Mix:

Stereo

Company:

Open Mike Productions

Good Enough

I am just now watching this program for the second time here in America. I confess that I watch an inordinate amount of Stand-Up comedy, and allot more of it these days comes from BBC America.

Across the pond we have SNL, Mad TV, Comedy Central (which is always on my tube), so I like to see this kind of show from other countries. It's Big!--and I like that. Jack Dee is funny in a cynical way, I like him and think he does a good job hosting the show.

Having only two episodes to go by so far, I can say that I like that the show focuses on one talent. I've grown weary of the 6 minute set that dominates American stand-up culture. However, an hour long show still provides ample time for two talents to do 20 minutes each, with Jack opening and closing.

At first I thought this was the same Apollo Theatre we have in Harlem, New York City USA (and that would have been really neat), but it's obviously not the same one and I feel quite silly for assuming there is only one Apollo Theatre in the world!

Joan Rivers is funny and def has a core audience, however, I was disappointed in much of her material. Sufficed to say, her act seemed quite dated.

Ardell O'Hanlon is extremely funny, in an innocently charming way. I first saw him in a stand-up special on Comedy Central about 4 years ago, and I'm happy to report that his material was a fine blend of old and new.

To make one direct reference to another comment: I did detect a bit of "canned laughter", however most of it seemed to match the visual audience reaction....the people in both episodes seemed to be genuinely enjoying themselves.

Overall, I say this program is good enough to tune in for. I hope to see more comedy!