Phil Ellis's 'Bath Mat' Show: A Raucous Midlife Comedy of Failures
Phil Ellis has been observing Netflix specials and noticed that top stand-up comedians often use a hype-man to build excitement before their performances. In his latest show, 'Bath Mat,' Ellis introduces his own version: a fellow northerner, comic Tom Short, who deadpans a list of Ellis's non-achievements in a threadbare American accent, punctuated by gunshot sound effects and an airhorn. This sets the tone for a performance that revels in the banalities and failures of midlife, with Ellis, aged 44, recently moved back in with his parents—single, balding, and financially strained.
Embracing Chaos and Audience Interaction
In 'Bath Mat,' Ellis transforms his personal struggles into a raucous laugh-along experience. He invites the audience to pitch abuse at him, conducts straw polls on his observations, and laughs along, seemingly amazed that he makes a living from this. Over two hours, the show feels more attenuated than the concentrated hits Ellis is known for on the fringe circuit. It presents as a structureless compendium of barely related routines, with a greater emphasis on so-so stand-up than the tomfoolish antics that often define his work.
Sections such as discussions about roadkill or luxury treatments for pets shift the focus from precision-focused comedy to all-in-it-together banter. This approach aligns with Ellis's style, as fans of his chaotic kids' show 'Funz and Gamez' will attest—few comedians excel at this communal humour better than Ellis.
Highlights and Personal Touches
Despite its diffuse nature, the show offers first-base fun. Ellis flashes amusing snaps from his childhood photo album, shares tales of duff gigs, and jokes about his parents' lukewarm welcome back home. The performance comes together most effectively in its titular routine, where Ellis's crowd-canvassing approach—asking about bath mats—triggers a lively and entertaining response from the audience.
A later section delves into background information about his dad and late nan, bringing some striking comic scenarios to life. While few routines earn the gunshot and airhorn exclamation points that his hype-man continues to apply, this is part of Ellis's charm. He glories in the ramshackle and finds plenty to celebrate in what others might deem crapness.
The show is touring until 15 January, offering audiences a chance to experience Ellis's unique blend of midlife reflection and chaotic comedy.
