Jim Breuer would take the stage at the historic Wilbur Theatre of Boston for his Marriage Warrior Tour. Located in the theater district, the Wilbur originally opened in 1914 and recently had a facelift in 2008 without losing its early year’s vibe. With a capacity of 1,200, it plays host to many comedy shows as well as some music acts. It’s a great venue to take in a comedy show as well as a band as there isn’t a bad seat in the house. In 1980, it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. I recommend arriving early for a couple of beverages and appetizers at Abby Lane Food & Spirits directly across the street. As for parking, there’s plenty of it, just don’t expect a bargain.
Now I had very little familiarity with Breuer’s work. He’s been around for quite some time, but I never listened too much of his material. Truthfully, the biggest thing I knew him for was when he was the MC for Metallica’s 30th anniversary shows, and all I knew from that was that he did a great impersonation of the Metallica guys. So, I was a bit apprehensive but excited; this would be a brand new experience for me, and with a comedian, if he or she is good, it makes for a great night out. Conversely, if he or she sucks, it can be a total waste of time. At least with a band you have a good idea of what you are getting into, as you know their music.
After a short opener – I did not catch his name, but he did a good job warming up the cold Boston crowd – Jim made his way to the stage. One of the great things with a comedy show is that there is no set change over; all they need to do is a pass of the microphone. With a show time of 7:30, Breuer was on the stage by 7:50, excellent, and he didn’t waste any time. Now some comedians are very scripted, and others are good on the fly; the way Jim started things off, I’m guessing he is good on the fly. With Boston recently getting hit by a snow storm that day, he went on to dismantle those who called the venue to see if the show was still on. Within no time, he had the audience roaring, and this would go on for over an hour leaving little time to take a breath only to be brought to stitches again.
Breuer would take us on a journey through his life, telling great stories of living in a household with three daughters with his ten-year-old not understanding the concept of flushing her deuce, to the shower drain being clogged with hair, and to not allowing a man his right to pee in the shower. He would also chronicle his life approaching 50 and his next big worry being who would wipe his ass when he’s soon unable to. Everything he is passionate about he made laughable, and that included heavy metal. He told a story about having dinner with AC/DC frontman Brian Johnson, and how he shuddered when his wife began to pray, and being invited to host for Metallica on MTV Icons. And his impressions, which went well beyond the Metallica boys, were impeccable.
It was over an hour’s long experience that seemed to only take minutes, as it was fucking hilarious. I had no idea what to expect, and I’m glad, as the element of surprise made a great show even greater. As for my review ruining any element of surprise, not to worry, as my lame ass description doesn’t even remotely do this show justice. I can tell you I’m hooked, and with his metal group, Jim Breuer and The Regulators, set to release a new CD of music a little later this year, if it’s anything like his comedy, then there’s no doubt it will be great. And if Jim Breuer is making a stop anywhere remotely near you, get your ass to the show; I guarantee you will laugh, a lot! If you don’t, then get your head checked. For all things Jim Breuer visit http://officialjimbreuer.com/.
