Review: Bertie Hodd – Dad Jokes, Camden People’s Theatre

While on television the concept of comedy appears to be fairly lazy sitcoms or comedians trotting out pre-written lines on panel shows, the live comedy circuit is a beautifully varied smorgasbord of unpredictable delight. From traditional stand up to deranged clowning, absurd sketches to heart breaking confessional humour, the variety on display fills me with hope that one day soon these individuals will be appearing on our TV screens, and if that does happen Bertie Hodd definitely deserves their own show.

Described as a “Coming Of Middle Age” story, Bertie initially takes to the stage as a rose tinted glasses view of a father figure, as the character tells bad jokes like “What rhymes with Orange? No it doesn’t”, but panics at the lack of a huge reaction and dives in to his comfy armchair where he repeats calming concepts such as “Radio 4”, “Boots” and “Shed”. It’s a strong start, but also an important one as it grounds the show in a nostalgic filled reality, while also letting the audience get comfortable and know they’re in safe and very talented hands.

After this gentle introduction the following fifty five minutes are a beautifully inspired, hilarious and affecting concoction. This begins with the father snapping and trying on an “Evil Dad” persona for size, which involves a white sheet, two cut out eye holes and a moustache, along with five minutes of open mic style stand up which highlights his confusion over what is happening in his offspring’s life, and how he just can’t get to grips with concepts like people being non-binary or wishing to have gender affirmative surgery.

It’s the performance rather than the material that makes this section funny, but it also highlights how the open mic circuit is rife with problematic attempts at humour. Yet while at this point it could be suggested there is no hope for Dad, this is a more complicated affair and over the course of the show it becomes far more optimistic, suggesting that while some may react poorly initially, people can change their perspectives.

The show also includes an appearance from Bertie’s mother who gives a lecture on Dads and Lesbians and what they may have in common, two beautifully sung covers, some innovative clowning, and so much more. A big part of the joy of the show is how it leaps from one genre to another, and whether the sequences are hilarious or poignant they’re perfectly performed.

About twenty minutes in during a costume stage we hear Bertie state a number of terms and conditions, which start off sounding full of legalese put become increasingly personal as they touch upon how the show shouldn’t be seen as a reflection on Bertie’s possible real life relationship with their parents. It makes it all the more captivating as it allows for a variety of takes on family life, but best of all is that they offer up the idea that even if a parental relationship is currently dysfunctional, that doesn’t mean it always will be.

Written and performed by Bertie Hodd

Bertie Hodd: Dad Jokes is playing at Camden People’s Theatre until Saturday 3rd May 2025.