Mark Watson Embraces Diss

Posted on 14th January 2024

I’ve seen Mark Watson a few times over the years, and I’m never sure how much of his intended routine ever gets delivered. Such is his conversational, seemingly disconnected, style, it’s tricky you work out how much has genuinely popped into his head on the night, and therefore when – if ever – the actual, proper show starts. I’m fairly confident that his analysis of the Corn Hall’s stage layout didn’t form part of his standard routine, nor the pros and cons of Diss itself. But whatever he has to say it would be hard to imagine a more convivial evening than in his company.

Notionally, he had at least intended to talk to us about the effect of having Google at our finger tips, not least on his parenting skills. Surprisingly frank and open about his private life, Watson shared the challenges faced when trying to be a good Dad when separated from Mum, the discomfort felt when acknowledging the excellence of his ex-wife’s new partner, and the trauma of a parents’ evening over Zoom. It made for a series of thoroughly enjoyable routines, but the biggest laughs came out of his digressions, reacting to the unpredictable eccentricities of the night.

For while you may have seen Watson on Taskmaster or QI, you’ve only really seen him when experienced live, in all his shambolic splendour. Rather than being performed at, it felt more like an evening with your funniest mate, sharing in the enjoyment of each other’s company. The audience obviously delighted in that company, and Watson clearly reciprocated, promising to not only return, but spread the word amongst his peers that the Corn Hall was a great place to perform. If you were in the audience, you’ll understand that when he does return, he’ll be wearing a smoking jacket and slippers.