The Essential Dave Allen

by Graham Mc Cann (Author)

• New

  Paperback
  2006

  $13.08

  When Dave Allen passed away in March 2005, we lost a true comedy great. Sitting cross-legged on a high stool, whiskey in one hand, cigarette in the other, Dave Allen's exasperated commentaries on the absurdities of modern life struck a chord with millions of fans in Britain, Ireland and Australia for over four decades. He was a compelling storyteller - able to spin shaggy dog stories out of the almost any subject, including the missing tip of his fourth finger of his left hand, for which he provided various unlikely explanations. But his gentle, laconic wit could also give way to ferocious attacks on the media, the state and, most famously, the Catholic Church. He was a unique talent - a comic who could make his audiences laugh, cry, and be shocked, all in one. This official celebration of Dave Allen's comedy has been drawn together by Graham McCann - Britain's best-loved entertainment writer. It is a treasure trove of stories, stand-up routines, sketches, interviews and photos, which takes us on a journey from the cradle to the grave. It will delight Dave Allen's million of fans, old and new alike. 'Dave Allen was our greatest storyteller and nobody ever came close to his ability to spin a yarn. He was unique, right up there with the greats.' Jack Dee

• Used

  Hardcover
  2005

  $4.20

  The spotlight picked him out: the cool, calm, darkly handsome man sitting up smart and straight in his black leather chair, with a glass of the good stuff by his side and mischief in his eyes. He welcomed you in, and then started sharing stories some of them short, many of them tall and one or two of them strange that made you laugh and made you think. He was Dave Allen, and The Essential Dave Allen is a celebration of his very special craft. The range of comic material in the collection covers every stage of life, from the cradle to the grave and beyond, as well as religion and politics, love and sex, food and drink, work and leisure and time and transience. All of Dave Allen's best-loved jokes, monologues and routines are reproduced just as the master storyteller told them. The Essential Dave Allen is a wonderful souvenir for those who grew up loving the man and his humour. For those who are new to him, it is an engaging introduction to a comedian who won the admiration of millions of fans in Ireland, Britain, Australia and beyond.