A regular on the Melbourne comedy circuit, Beau Stegmann is a diamond in the rough, ready for his big break. The problem is that he already got a big break. Then he sort of lost it again. And much of this show is about what happened.
Here’s Looking At Me is performed at Fort Delta, a small gallery space deep in the bowels of the Capitol Arcade opposite the Town Hall, and is billed as Stegmann’s attempted emulation of his hero Humphrey Bogart.
I’m not sure that the advertised mimesis actually happens during the show. I also think the script needs some tightening, but technically the call-backs are great and he does wrap the storylines well at the end.
At just 26, Beau executes his stand-up with a confidence you don’t often see in young performers. He deals with hecklers beautifully and his energy levels keep the show moving at a comfortable pace for the whole hour.
He’s intensely likeable and while the show contains its fair share of heartbreak, by the end you just want to give him a huge bear hug and tell him everything will work out for the best.
If Melbourne’s comedy bookers go to this show and see the clear and obvious potential in Beau …it definitely will.
Rating: 3 ½ out of 5 starsHere’s Looking at Me
By Beau Stegmann
Fort Delta, Swanston St
Melbourne International Comedy Festival
www.comedyfestival.com.au
27 March – 20 April