Jeff Stark, Old Fart Gassing

I went to this show along with two 'mature' friends intrigued by the fact it was an 81 year old making his Fringe debut. I wished I hadn't bothered. Stark's anecdotes and themes were self-indulgent (talking about his days as an advertising executive); lazy (reading out a list of US country music songs) and frankly self-indulgent. Most disappointing was the lack of any actual humour in his monologue, sad for someone who should be happy to throw caution to the wind and speak frankly as many who are of a certain vintage are capable of doing. I absolutely applaud the fact he's had the gumption to do a Fringe show at his long-nurtured age, which he carries incredibly well, but I'm afraid this was uninteresting, uninspiring and completely unfunny.

Jeff had some very witty observations on what to expect in your 80s. A welcome newcomer to the Fringe at the age of 81! Long may he continue to stand up!

Most first time comedians at the fringe are under 30, swear a lot and have no content. Jeff Stark however is a real treat. Yes, he is a 1st time fringe performer but he doesn't swear (much) and has endless stories. He is 81 years old with all the experience that that brings. He tackles how ageing affects your fashion choices, sex, bladder and taste in music. His sketch on country music titles is hilarious. If you are an audience volunteer he won't remember your name but he gets through an hour of gags, stories and advice on reaching 81 with an energy and mental alertness that most 20 year olds lack.