Big Dad Energy

Funny stand-up

Pretty funny standup show with just a few minor so/so spots. If you are a parent or simply like in-your-face standup comedy, you will like this show. A couple minor critiques for the artist: 1) Tower of Terror is in Hollywood Studios. 2) Just because people are free at 5:30 on a Monday doesn't mean they don't have a worthwhile job. Many people work hours other than 9-5.

The Dad Energy Was Palpable

Funny and extremely genuine. Jamie is not only a talented comedian, but a gifted storyteller as well. The jokes were funny, dadly, and clever, but what surprised me were the moving reflections on fatherhood and on coming to terms with what to do with all that Dadliness without kids of yr own. Loved it.

Fringe at its best

Yes, we all go to Fringe to see not only the good, but "the bad, and the ugly," and that is part of the fun. But this year, we have had several nationally known actors in our midst, and Jamie is one of them. Finding them has been an especial delight of this this year's Fringe! I'm not necessarily a stand-up comedian fan, but Jamie's structure, timing, acting, and every possible other aspect of this show was top rate. I typically don't give a 5 unless a show is particularly interesting TO ME (remember, not a stand-up fan), but Jamie is an exception: an outstanding performance.

Comedy, Storytelling, and Rap

Funny on all three fronts. I wish my dad was this cool and accepting. But Jamie said he's proud of me!

You get the title you signed up for.

This review is from seeing show #2. In one sentence: although a couple scripted moments of more intimate reflection felt out of place from the comedic style, come meet a not-dad dad that you’ll probably love. In three sentences: this Fringer cracks open a cold one from the get-go, inviting you to a backyard barbecue-like banter about life and how it’s okay for it to go in ways you don’t expect. Just a couple moments I felt removed from the narrative, unsure if my trust was earned with the deeper, reflective thoughts next to the Fringer’s semi-surface level comedic style. But being a dad is complicated and this show adds up to a beautiful example of self-awareness prowess.

I'm proud of you

Loved it...

Be My Big Daddy!

The three minute preview had me hooked. The pineapple on pizza metaphor was brilliant. I knew I had to see the full show. Jamie is one of the treats from Kansas City this year. He walked a tight rope of funny, hysterical and painful topics with Big Daddy Energy and grace. Kids everywhere need parental role models from the non-biological parents out there. Thanks Jamie!

To Spawn or Not to Spawn...?

Jamie’s personal and thoughtful (and very funny) foray into the fork in the road hit home with me. The fork being: as a fella approaches his forties, is he going to commit to becoming a father or (likely) spend the rest of his life without the joy and mayhem of having kids? Kansas City has lent us a couple of great talents this Fringe—Skippy being one and this instantly likable Big Dad Energy being the other. I particularly enjoyed how Jamie walked the tightrope of new and interesting ways to discipline your misbehaving brood, and—while the rap sequences may have felt a tinge cringey—he jumped in with both feet and committed to it, complete with background vocals. If you are a parent or if you (like me) have thought about becoming a parent once upon a time but took that other path at the fork, I would highly recommend this laugh-out-loud show.

Dad Energy On Point

Jamie takes you through a buffet of perfectly crafted dad jokes (both the kinds of jokes dads tell, and jokes about dads) with a ton of wholesome energy and some thoughtful commentary on parenting and leaving a legacy. He's proud of you and he wants you to know it. Big Dad Energy definitely lives up to it's name!

Heart & Humor

Jamie Campbell delivered so much sincerity, heart, and humor in an hour. His longer form bits made for simultaneous excellent comedy and storytelling. His crowd interaction was fun-loving and he truly brought all the best dad energy. The songs were a sweet bonus and the emotional flow of the piece left me tearing up from laughing and from genuine emotion.