Absurdist comedian, actor and clown John Norris brings his show 'Mr Chonkers' around the country.
John's style of absurd comedy oozes silliness. He's based out of Los Angeles and Las Vegas, and 'Mr Chonkers' is a very important waste of your time.
This is a show not to be taken seriously. It's a solo show, mocking and celebrating the art of performance. It's absurd, simple, outrageous and stupid.
Interest piqued? We speak to John to learn more.
Your style can be described as ‘absurd comedy’. Why is this an effective way to perform?
Good god. This is the first question? Not “what’s your favourite kind of cheese, mate?” or something like that? Interview starting strong. Nice. I don’t do absurdist comedy because it’s effective. I do it because I actually can’t do it any other way. This is as clear as I can make myself. But I do think an absurdist comedy show is a nice break from most people’s routine. For one hour, we all have permission to be a complete idiot and laugh and not know why we’re laughing. Let’s all take a break and indulge in some lunacy.
Who inspires you in the world of performance?
In no particular order: Robin Williams, Steve Martin, Catherine O’Hara, Gene Wilder, Andy Kaufman, Bob Mortimer, Molly Shannon, Steve Coogan, Frank Black, David Byrne.
What’s your favourite thing about performing to a live audience?
As opposed to other creative mediums, it’s just amazing. Incredibly time-efficient. You know immediately when your idea is terrible.
You’ve already presented your show for a bit here. What’s been your highlight so far?
It seems that the audiences/people down here generally seem to want to have fun. The people at the shows here aren’t taking themselves as seriously as other places. Now, that may because any person choosing to go to a show called 'Mr Chonkers' isn’t a serious person. Who knows. It’s refreshing.
When audiences leave your show, they should be talking to their friends about. . .
They’ll be talking about how it should be illegal that a guy that dumb could be so handsome.
John Norris Tour Dates
Until 19 April – The Greek (Melbourne International Comedy Festival)
22-26 April – Factory Theatre (Sydney Comedy Festival)
30 April-3 May Brisbane Powerhouse (Brisbane Comedy Festival)
