REVIEW — As predictable this time of year as spring break crowds and warm winds, stand-up comedian Brian Regan returns to Tuacahn’s outdoor stage for a three-night show.
It’s an understatement to say Regan, known for his goofy observational and refreshingly “clean” comedy is a fixture at Tuacahn – he’s likely the most popular and successful performer to ever grace the amphitheater and certainly the only one to have a Netflix special filmed there, 2021’s “On The Rocks.”
Regan’s annual tour stop in Southern Utah began soon after his career-defining record “I Walked On The Moon” practically kickstarted the clean comedy genre, paving the way for hugely successful and similar artists like Jim Gaffigan and Nate Bargatze. That record, still in Apple iTunes Top 15 most-listened-to comedy collections, resonated with a wide cross-section of fans – it appealed to grandparents, parents and their kids, a rare multigenerational impact that is still evident in his live audiences.
Thursday night Regan covered topics ranging from his childhood, his first jobs and fatherhood, such as playing Barbie with his daughter, along with fresh takes on cruise trips and his confusion on assault weapons. As usual, his visits to his doctor are always prime opportunities for fun material, as when recently his physician pointed out in his X-rays the one bone in his body that is “racist.”
He understands his audience, perfectly earning big laughs describing a scene in which a large family is getting ready to leave a parking lot and the poor soul with blinker blinking waiting for the spot — foolishly thinking it will take the family less than 45 minutes to pack up and move out. We’ve all been there – especially here in Utah.
His brisk 70-minute routine seems both familiar and fresh – he’s known for not relying on old bits. A few years ago in two performances only six months apart in two different venues, he never repeated even one joke – a particularly amazing feat for a comedian who spends so much time on the road. Regan, who boasts Jerry Seinfeld as a fan, may be slowing down a bit, but his brand of comedy isn’t going out of style any time soon.
Veteran comic and Hawaii native Kermit Apio does just what a great opening act should – set the stage for the headliner with consistent laughs and easily relatable humor. No wonder Regan has used him for years.
Visit Tuacahn.org or call 435-652-3300 for tickets and information.
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