Josh Glanc – Glance You For Having Me

Never one for normality or continuity, Josh Glanc enters the stage clad in a ‘70s style tuxedo and performing a ‘50s show tune. It’s an odd beginning that will eventually see a massive payoff in the finale, but for now punters are giggling with unsurprising joy.

What follows, however, is not a traditional Glanc performance. Past years have seen the Melbourne comic delve into long-form character work and non-sequitur sketch pieces, but 2019’s Glance You For Having Me sees a different side to the alt favourite. Glanc is in somewhat of a transitional phase in his comedy this time around, taking a break from his usual barrage of randomness and introducing some straightforward stand-up to the mix. One moment he’s singing into the face of an audience member, the next he’s divulging the often complicated relationship he has with his mother. Individually, these elements are solid comedic blocks that really showcase the range of this incredible performer, yet when combined, the whole performance feels disjointed and underdeveloped.

Glanc still has those peaks of random insanity that fans have come to know and love, and his newfound storytelling is truly hilarious and heartwarming in equal measure. However, it is in the combination of the two that the show has problems. The transitions are grating at times and occasionally sees the stand-up stumble, though his physicality and facial manipulation often sneak in to save the day. The weirder aspects of the show feel rushed, while the storytelling leaves the crowd wanting more of this previously unseen side of Glanc’s personality.

Glance You For Having Me may not possess the riotous vigour of previous Glanc offerings, but what it lacks in body it makes up for in brains and heart. It’s a lovingly weird tribute, and a performance that will ultimately leave audiences questioning the nature of entertainment – and reality – itself.