In his debut, Dan Jones takes the audience through his struggles with love without borders. Balancing confessional and observational bits, the result is a charming hour of comedy that you just don’t want to end.
Will keep you smiling throughout—so much so that he may even call you out on it
Jones’ premise is strong and allows him to explore a wide range of themes including relationships, infuriating governmental red tape, childhood and therapy. Though these themes may at first seem sobering, Jones approaches them with an ease and bluntness that is simultaneously warm and inviting. The performance is bookended with uplifting material that transports the audience to what feels like a comedy nightclub, and the jokes come in thick and fast from the outset.
Jones proposes that his show is an attempt to prove that love exists (hence the ‘ambitiousness’ in the title). In actuality, the object of his exercise is only mentioned once or twice, which leaves the quest semi-abandoned. The slight thematic tangent leaves the audience with this question that remains unanswered; nevertheless, the journey is undeniably enjoyable. Rather, I would characterise Jones’ hour as a commentary on the practicalities and logistics of love with a side of highlighting the mundanity of life. It is this impression instead that makes the show both unique and highly entertaining.
Jones’ tone is light-hearted and blasé, making the moments of self-deprecation far from the commonly cringe-inducing quips of new comics. He invites you in to observe his vulnerability, no matter how uncomfortable he finds feeling perceived—and yet the audience remain at ease. There are no significant weak-points in Jones’ performance; however, the show could be strengthened further with confidence. Some of the more climactical moments do not fully translate and are at risk of seeming half-baked. Should this be a deliberate choice or not, uncertainty could be eased with bolder choices. On the other hand, outstanding moments of the show include the wonderful wordplay peppered throughout, particularly in his critique of the absurdity of saccharinely positive advice, which gleefully took me by surprise.
Dan Jones: This Seems Ambitious will keep you smiling throughout—so much so that he may even call you out on it (yes, this happened to me.) Despite the ambitious title, Jones’ performance remains relatable-y British, dry and entertaining.
