Celebrated comic Stuart Taylor brings laughter with 'Odd Man Out'
One of South Africa’s most beloved comedians, Stuart Taylor, is set to make waves at the Baxter Theatre next month with his highly anticipated stand-up show, Odd Man Out.
Armed with razor-sharp wit and a talent for captivating storytelling, Taylor's latest offering promises to deliver a refreshing and hilarious perspective on life’s peculiarities, particularly the universal experience of feeling like an outsider. Fresh off his Ovation Award win at the 2024 National Arts Festival in Makhanda, Taylor brings to the stage a candid and laugh-out-loud exploration of the awkward moments that have defined his existence.
Whether recounting his teenage escapades with magic tricks that went hilariously awry or detailing the tumultuous but entertaining trials of parenting two teenage boys, Taylor demonstrates that standing out in a crowd isn’t a drawback—it's the fuel for comedy.
"Odd Man Out sums up my life perfectly. I’ve always been that guy who doesn't quite fit in—like a vegan at a braai," Stuart shares.
His previous shows, including Learner Husband and Techni-Coloured, have cemented his reputation for providing an outlet for those who often find themselves on the periphery. In his new routine, Taylor aims to highlight the reality that feeling like an outsider is a shared experience—one that many will resonate with. Armed with a relatable sense of humour, Stuart takes his audience through the absurdity of everyday life, with stories ranging from the struggles of maintaining a midlife fitness routine to the complexities of experiencing “learner husbandhood.” Taylor reflects on the unique challenges that accompany raising school-age children, particularly in the private schooling system, sharing the not-so-ordinary experiences that arise along the way.
As he journeys through the challenges of ageing in a fast-paced world, Taylor cleverly juxtaposes his personal anecdotes with self-deprecating humour. From attempting to keep fit and juggling family life to navigating the inevitable midlife crisis in his forties, his sharp observations ensure that laughter prevails amidst life’s trials and tribulations.
This show, he emphasized, is wholly original, crafted from the very essence of his life experiences. "People always think their stories are so unique—like, 'You won’t believe this!' Spoiler alert: we all do the same weird things! My goal is to shine a light on those relatable moments," he affirms, proving that comedy transcends individual experience and brings people together in shared hilarity.
In Odd Man Out, Taylor doesn't shy away from exposing the awkward realities of life, transforming the cringeworthy into comedic brilliance. Expected stories of failed attempts at being the “cool dad” or learning to cook without ruining dinner resonate deeply, eliciting heartfelt laughter from all quarters.
"Owning that oddball status is my mantra. If everyone else is a clone, then the standout becomes the superhero, right?" he muses, drawing parallels between the distinctive experiences of life and the importance of embracing one's quirks. Adding a sprinkle of magic reminiscent of his early days, Taylor reflects on the illusions of life itself and how it's transformed into an arsenal of comedic material. Audiences can expect a rich tapestry of moments filled with hilarity, heart, and relatability—an honest yet delightful showcase of the ups and downs of life's journey.
Stuart Taylor’s genuine ability to connect with audiences is what makes him a standout on the South African comedy scene. As one of the nation’s most sought-after entertainers, he consistently turns mundane frustrations into laughable moments, ensuring that Odd Man Out is not a show to be missed for anyone who hasn’t found themselves in an awkward situation—essentially, a universal theme. "The Baxter Theatre is like a second home—only with better lighting and fewer dishes to argue about," Taylor jokes about the iconic venue. "[...] And it's only a R70 Uber home," he adds, further enticing his audience to join him for a night filled with laughter.