david strassman australian tour 2022 adelaide

David Strassman in The Chocolate Diet

15 to 20 November 2022

Athenaeum Theatre 1

From London to New York, David Strassman’s comic genius has shocked and surprised.

Now it’s your turn to experience Strassman’s uproarious comedy with those infamous favorites, the loveable Ted E. Bare and the evil Chuck Wood. Strassman’s newest show is The Chocolate Diet. Ted E. Bare’s health quest is hilariously painful, and one we can relate to. Meanwhile, Chuck is going through an identity crisis.

Strassman is one of Australia’s favorite comedian’s, a master of his art. Once again, he delivers the ultimate night out. A truly remarkable performance appears to defy reality - The Adelaide Advertiser Hilarious - The Scotsman (UK)

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Athenaeum Theatre 188 Collins Street, Melbourne 3000 Phone: 03 9650 1500 | E-mail: [email protected] www.athenaeumtheatre.com.au

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From London to New York, David Strassman's comic genius has shocked and surprised. Now it's your turn to experience Strassman's uproarious comedy with those infamous favourites, the lovable Ted E. Bare and the evil Chuck Wood.

Performances : Wednesday 9 November, 7.00pm Wednesday 9 November, 9.15pm

Strassman's newest show is The Chocolate Diet. Ted E. Bare's health quest is hilariously painful, and one we can relate to. Meanwhile, Chuck is going through an identity crisis.

Strassman is one of Australia's favourite comedians, a master of his art. Once again, he delivers the ultimate night out.

"A truly remarkable performance appears to defy reality" - The Adelaide Advertiser.

"Hilarious" - The Scotsman (UK)

Warning: MA 15+. Children 12 - 15 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Children under 12 not permitted.

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• by Grant Alexander
• Posted on November 16, 2022 November 16, 2022

David Strassman in The Chocolate Diet – Comedy Review

I remember as a kid, staying up late on a Saturday night watching Hey Hey it’s Saturday with the family. One evening they had a guest appearance of a ventriloquist from America, David Strassman.

Although, at the time, it was just a guy and a puppet that talked, and I was maybe 10 years old, I was so captivated. As I grew up, I would always hear about David Strassman touring Australia, yet I somehow always missed his shows. Well, that changed last night when I finally got to see this legend perform on stage on Tuesday November 15th at Melbourne’s Athenaeum Theatre! But did he live up the expectations I set as a child?

David Strassman in the Chocolate Diet is a show centred around one of his many characters, Ted E. Bare and his struggles with the love of chocolate, all things sweet, and going on a diet. The moment the show began and Ted E. Bare was brought out, I found myself smiling from ear to ear, reminiscing of the times I saw him on TV as a kid, and I was loving every moment.

Ted E. Bare ’s persona is so sweet, lovable, and wholesome. Just trying to be the best version of himself. I found myself feeling empathetic towards his battle of trying to be healthy, yet loving all the good things.

The show took a slight dive when Chuck Wood came out on stage. Perhaps it was the mood of the room and the lack of reception that Chuck received for his jokes, but I just wasn’t feeling it. The topics of choice for Chuck ’s segment seemed to fall flat and I found myself waiting for the next part of the show to kick in. I could also tell that Strassman was feeling the same by the body language and the interactions he was having with Chuck . Even to the point of calling out the lack of laughter from the audience. But being the true professional he is, Strassman powered through and made the most of what he was getting back. I really admired that.

Aside from the Strassman staples of Ted E. Bare and Chuck Wood , we were also treated to an appearance from Grandpa Fred , Ted E. Bare ’s grandfather who had some questionable lifestyle choices. Buttons the Clown , an alcoholic clown that apparently even surprised Strassman with a brand-new emotional response that has never happened before. Kevin , the alien sharing that he has no desire to invade Earth because we have already screwed it up, not being afraid to be blunt to the audience about the future of the planet. Last but not least, the cute and comedic Sid Beaverman with a classic stand up set of ‘dad jokes’. Out of all the additional characters, Buttons the Clown and Sid Beaverman were the highlights. I do love a good dad joke and those that laughed along during his set are my kind of people. Of course, Ted E. Bare is still the fan favourite.

One thing that really surprised me when the show started was that it is clearly only one person up on that stage. Yet, with the puppet next to him, Strassman effortlessly creates the illusion that there are two individuals having a conversation.

Ventriloquism is not a simple artform, and even for the seasoned professional like Strassman , there are still words and phrases that are almost impossible to pull off. Strassman cleverly disguises these challenges within the character of the puppet he is performing with. It might be a deliberate mispronunciation of the word or saying it in another way, only to have Strassman correct the words of the character that is generally met with “Yes, that too” as a response. I was amazed by how fluid the conversations were and even more impressed by Strassman ’s uncanny ability to pull off sound effects such as a wheezing laugh, a hiccup, animal noises, and even stuttering. All expertly executed without the movement of his own mouth.

Technical ability aside, David Strassman is an incredibly clever and quick-witted comedian. About ten minutes into the Ted E. Bare part of the set, some patrons arrived late. Arriving late at a comedy show is a big no-no, especially if you are sitting down at the front. Mid conversation Ted just stopped talking and glared down into the audience. It wasn’t just Strassman heckling the latecomers, but Ted also got in on the action. Even when Strassman stumbled on lines or lost his place in the show due to an audience interaction, he was able to recover quickly and get back into a rhythm.

Having toured here for decades, Melbourne is like a second home to Strassman . It was refreshing to hear nods to local places and stereotypes as part of his show, and how much he genuinely understood and loved Australia. All of this is proof that Strassman’s crowd-work is flawless and a talent that any comedian would be envious of.

If the wholesome moments of the performance were not already enough, last nights show was also a charity performance with proceeds going to Heart Kids . A charity that raises funds for children fighting heart disease. At the end of the performance, Strassman introduced the charity organisation and stated that with ticket sales alone, we had already raised $10,000 for Heart Kids .

To add to it, Strassman held an auction where he sold several plush versions of Ted E. Bare , each with a red heart drawn on his chest and a signed tag. Each purchase also included a meet and greet with a photo at the end of the auction. I had a few bids myself but was quickly out-bid. Strassman was blown away by the generosity of the audience and I left the venue with my heart so full. It’s so wonderful seeing people amazing in their craft, but to use their talents for good is something else. I even purchased my own giant Ted E. Bare on my way out.

Overall, the positives were overwhelming and made for a fun and enjoyable evening. The jokes that fell flat were quickly forgotten about, the wholesome and hilarious moments live on. I was so glad that I finally got to see this legendary comedic icon up on stage in The Chocolate Diet , and I would happily catch him on his next Australian tour.

David Strassman in the Chocolate Diet is now playing at Melbourne’s Athenaeum Theatre until this Sunday the 20 th of November and continues in Adelaide from the 29 th of November until the 4 th of December. For more information and ticketing, visit: https://www.davidstrassman.com https://www.heartkids.org.au

Photography by Adam Shane.

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Our Fraser Coast

• Brolga Theatre and Convention Centre
• Hervey Bay Regional Gallery
• Gatakers Artspace
• Maryborough Customs Precinct
• Maryborough Showgrounds & Equestrian Park
• The Story Bank

David Strassman in The Chocolate Diet

In The Chocolate Diet, Ted E. Bare’s health quest is hilariously painful, and one we can relate to. Meanwhile, Chuck is going through an identity crisis.

Two performances : 7pm and 9:15pm

9:15pm patrons note - no entry until 8:50pm.

From London to New York, David Strassman’s comic genius has shocked and surprised. Now it’s your turn to experience Strassman’s uproarious comedy with those infamous favourites, the loveable Ted E. Bare and the evil Chuck Wood. 

In The Chocolate Diet, Ted E. Bare’s health quest is hilariously painful, and one we can relate to. Meanwhile, Chuck is going through an identity crisis.

Strassman is one of Australia’s favourite comedian’s, a master of his art. Once again, he delivers the ultimate night out.

A truly remarkable performance appears to defy reality – The Adelaide Advertiser Hilarious – The Scotsman (UK)

This performance is rated MA. Children 12 to 15 years old must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. No-one under 12 admitted.

• For patrons with mobility difficulties and Companion Card holders please call our Box Office on 07 4122 6060 Monday to Friday 8:30am - 4:30pm to enquire or make your booking.
• For the safety of yourself and others full contact tracing information is required for each ticket holder. This includes full name, phone number and email (or residential address if unavailable). If purchasing your tickets at the door, please arrive early to provide this information. For more information visit our  COVID-19 Update  page. 
• In line with current directions from the Queensland Government from 1 May 2021 all patrons must now use the  Check In QLD app  when entering the venue. To make entry faster you can download the  Check In QLD app  and complete your details before your arrival. If you do not have a compatible smart device, our ambassadors will be on hand to check you in.  You can find out more information about the Check in QLD app by  clicking here . Note that all members of your party are required to check in with the Check In QLD app event though we recorded your contact details with your booking for this performance. 
• When attending these events, you are strongly encouraged to wear a mask when you are not sitting in your allocated seat and it is not possible to physically distance. This could include entering or exiting the venue, leaving your seat to go to the bathroom or purchasing food or drinks.
• Terms and conditions of sale have recently changed, please familiarise yourself with these terms and conditions, available on our  website , prior to purchasing your tickets.

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David Strassman in The Chocolate Diet

From London to New York, David Strassman's comic genius has shocked and surprised. Now it's your turn to experience Strassman's uproarious comedy with those infamous favourites, the loveable Ted E. Bare and the evil Chuck Wood.

Strassman’s newest show is The Chocolate Diet. Ted E. Bare’s health quest is hilariously painful, and one we can relate to. Meanwhile, Chuck is going through an identity crisis Strassman is one of Australia’s favourite international comedians. A master of his art, his sell-out tours deliver a truly hilarious night out.

“ Strassman is nothing short of astounding! ” – The Scotsman “ Hilarious! ” – The Guardian, London

Recommended Age & Warnings This performance is rated MA. Children 12 to 15 years old must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. No-one under 12 admitted. Strobe and Haze.

David Strassman ‘grateful’ to come to Australia

Comedian and Ventriloquist David Strassman says he is “grateful and blessed” to go on stage in Australia and do his shows.

“I am preparing to leave in one week to go down under for a massive 51 performances in 60 days,” he told Sky News host Chris Smith.

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David Strassman’s The Chocolate Diet Tour

Country Club Tasmania , Country Club Ave Prospect Launceston, Tasmania, Launceston

Ticket Information

• Premium : $79.90 each
• A Reserve : $59.90 each
• B Reserve : $49.90 each

• Additional fees may apply
• Thu 5 May 2022, 7:00pm–10:30pm

Restrictions

• Country Club Tasmania

From London to New York, David Strassman’s comic genius has shocked and surprised. Now it’s your turn to experience Strassman’s uproarious comedy with those infamous favourites, the loveable Ted E. Bare and the evil Chuck Wood.

Strassman’s newest show is The Chocolate Diet. Ted E. Bare’s health quest is hilariously painful, and one we can relate to. Meanwhile, Chuck is going through an identity crisis.

Strassman is one of Australia’s favourite comedians, a master of his art. Once again, he delivers the ultimate night out.

Strassman will be coming to Launceston on the 5th May, performing at 7pm and 9:15pm.

This performance is rated MA 15+. Children 12 to 15 years must be accompanied by parents or guardian. No one under 12 years admitted.

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• What’s on

David Strassman – The Chocolate Diet

Thursday 16 June 2022 7.00 pm AND 9.30 pm

This performance is rated MA. Children 12 to 15 years old must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. No-one under 12 admitted. VIP - $79.90ea (Stalls AA, A, B & Balcony A) A Reserve - $59.90ea (Stalls C-N & Balcony B-E) B Reserve - $49.90ea (Stalls O-Q & Balcony F-H)

RESERVE A TABLE

Reserve a table at our pre-show Stars Dining for David Strassman - The Chocolate Diet Stars Dining utilises the online reservation system - Open Table. Simply select the number of people attending, the date of the performance and preferred time, and click on 'Find a Table'. Then select from the times available before filling out your details.

NEW DATE –  Thursday 16 June 2022 at 7.00 pm and 9.30 pm. This show was originally scheduled for Friday 26 November 2021 and was postponed due to COVID-19, restrictions and border closures to the new date of Thursday 16 June 2022 at 7.00 pm and 9.30 pm.

From London to New York, David Strassman’s comic genius has shocked and surprised. Now it’s your turn to experience Strassman’s uproarious comedy with those infamous favourites, the loveable Ted E. Bare and the evil Chuck Wood.

Strassman’s newest show is The Chocolate Diet. Ted E. Bare’s health quest is hilariously painful, and one we can relate to. Meanwhile, Chuck is going through an identity crisis.

Strassman is one of Australia’s favourite comedian’s, a master of his art. Once again, he delivers the ultimate night out.

 A truly remarkable performance appears to defy reality – The Adelaide Advertiser

Hilarious – The Scotsman (UK)

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Ethical considerations drowned out as Adelaide’s LIV affair continues

More in South Australia are seemingly able to turn the other way and view the Saudi-backed rebel golf tour’s presence as a boon for the sport

A s LIV golf returns to Adelaide next week, Australia’s appetite for the breakaway tour appears stronger than anywhere in the world. The South Australian capital has been the most successful venue in the short history of the tour, and there are few signs that any ethical misgivings about the tour’s Saudi backers have diminished that popularity.

The manner of the challenger brand’s ingratiation of Australian officials, players and spectators serves as a model for LIV, particularly as the mooted merger with the PGA Tour shows little sign of delivering a united sport. The 2024 event, which gets under way on Friday 26 April, is therefore significant.

The existing deal with SA covers this year’s event, plus two more, and the state’s premier, Peter Malinauskas, has trumpeted its success. He has acknowledged the ethical misgivings about LIV, but has ploughed on anyway. The state “went out on a limb”, he told ABC last year, “and provided LIV Golf their breakthrough moment globally”.

Public discussion of the human rights record of Saudi Arabia, which has bankrolled LIV’s rapid establishment through the country’s Public Investment Fund, has largely fallen away, but amid the South Australian backslapping there are still some who are pushing back. The Liberal opposition leader, David Speirs, has been opposed to the event since its announcement, and continues to criticise Malinauskas on the decision to host the event due to the links to Saudi Arabia.

But more in Australia are seemingly able to turn the other way, and view LIV’s presence as a boon for the sport. Golf Australia’s chief executive, James Sutherland, said last month this part of the world looked at LIV differently. “There’s clearly an ‘anti’ or a conservative sentiment about the Saudis in the US, and the further east you go on a world map from America, the more moderate the views are,” he told the SportNXT conference in a room featuring many of Australian sport’s senior executives.

Golf Australia’s close collaborator is the PGA of Australia, the body representing tournament and club professionals and organiser of the Australasian Tour, which is still aligned with LIV rival the DP World Tour. Despite the political complexity, Sutherland was matter-of-fact. “The Australian public just wants to embrace great talent in that golf sphere that ordinarily wouldn’t come to Australia.”

Indeed, the most vocal local criticism of LIV’s Adelaide event last year was not about the crackdown on dissent in Saudi Arabia or the country’s repression of women , but rather the impact the event had on the condition of the host course.

Sutherland’s comments highlight the region’s appetite for the sport which – due to the PGA Tour’s historical dominance – has largely focused on audiences in the US and, to a lesser extent, Europe. They suggest LIV’s formula is, at least in Australia, working, despite close connections between Australia’s golf establishment and the DP World Tour, which alongside the PGA Tour in the US has been at loggerheads with LIV.

The appeal of LIV in Adelaide is simple. Never before has such an expensive collection of golfing talent been taken to Australia’s fifth-largest city. Last year 77,000 tickets were sold, roughly double the estimated attendance of LIV’s next most popular event (figures are not formally reported).

Although LIV has demonstrated its almost unlimited financial resources in the pursuit of players, the taxpayers of SA have paid – in money and time – for the privilege of hosting. The exact amount has been kept under wraps, with the government refusing to detail the deal in parliament.

The deep pockets of the breakaway tour have been regarded as its greatest power. December’s deal for John Rahm – reported to be in the hundreds of millions of dollars – underscores LIV’s long-term financial commitment, close to two years after it initially picked off its opening lineup.

But last year’s Adelaide event – although managed by LIV’s operating partner Performance 54 (another PIF-backed entity) – was only pulled off thanks to the help of more than 700 unpaid helpers. A similar callout is under way this year.

LIV has reportedly offered millions in site fees to clubs in the US to host the tournament . But no such windfall has come the way of Australian host, the Grange Golf Club.

T he Grange sits close to the beach not far from Adelaide’s CBD, and is approaching its 100th year. Its financial results for last year show no specific revenue spikes attributed to LIV, and the largest unexplained growth in a single line item was a $350,000 increase in “sundry income”. However, the documents describe a healthy club, boosted by more than $300,000 in additional bar and catering profit, a reduction in the club’s debt and a membership fee increase that was below inflation.

The club is not looking to be handsomely compensated, according to the general manger of the course, Barry Linke. He said hosting the event delivered multiple benefits, although the precise terms of the agreement with LIV were commercial in confidence. “[There were] improved playing conditions for members due to the additional maintenance and work done on the golf course – in 2023 we spent twice as much on course maintenance as a normal year,” he said.

“There is a financial benefit, improved infrastructure, worldwide recognition to the Grange, increase in membership inquiry and demand, increase in visiting player revenue, and improved club reciprocal opportunities for our members.”

The announcement of the Grange as LIV’s Australian host came in late 2022, but not out of the blue. One of its two courses is designed by LIV commissioner Greg Norman, and the club was the site of his first professional victory in 1976. He even has a testimonial on the club’s website.

Grange reported 86% of members were satisfied with the LIV event, even though it interfered with access to the course. One member of 45 years went to the local newspaper complaining about the damage hosting LIV had caused. Not long after, his scorecard was leaked by another Grange member seemingly unhappy with the dissent. The X account that posted the hacker’s card said the complainant “should probably worry more about the state of his golf game than the state of the course”.

LIV’s divisive attack on world golf and sensitivities around the source of its wealth may linger in these debates. But they suggest SA’s long-ignored golfing community may be less concerned with the death of Jamal Khashoggi, and more with the condition of a course.

Speirs said the opposition party maintained its anti-LIV stance while the rebel event “remains under the control of the Saudi regime, which is notorious for sports-washing in order to cover up the deplorable mistreatment and basic rights violations of women”. That position means, come 26 April, the spectre of Saudi Arabia’s influence will not have been extinguished entirely amid the beats and beers along Grange’s exclusive fairways. But, like Chase Koepka on last year’s party hole, that sentiment is likely to be drowned out.

• LIV Golf Series
• Saudi Arabia and sport
• Australia sport
• South Australia

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