Review: Mark Christopher Lawrence at the DC Comedy Loft – DC Metro Theater Arts

Mark Christopher Lawrence is a comedian of myriad talents. Appearing at the Bier Baron Tavern’s Comedy Loft, Mr. Lawrence commanded the stage with an act that was multi-dimensional – and with many moods. His professional background shone through, and he possessed an intuitive ability to allow for interaction with the audience when it proved to enrich the surge of material. It was obvious that Mr. Lawrence was in complete control of his comedic choices.

Mark Christopher Lawrence
Mark Christopher Lawrence

Lawrence opened with a bit about the South and Missouri that was astutely observational. His gifts of perfecting inflections of dialect and making fluid facial expressions showed his mastery of acting. Mr. Lawrence believes strongly in the “storytelling” style of comedy – and, throughout the evening, he regaled the audience with comedic vignettes and increasingly honest and earthy material. Subject and topics ranged from TSA screenings to awkward medical exams and the trials of family life.

Mr. Lawrence had a very interesting ability to be both at ease and down-to earth, yet also pointedly caustic and quasi-irate in manner – recalling the frankness of Lenny Bruce. There are many different comedians with signature styles – like Carol Burnett with her physical comedy, or Woody Allen with his intellectual style. But what’s fascinating about Mark Christopher Lawrence is that he has the versatility to combine all the assets of the comedy giants – physical agility, verbal creativity, spontaneity, and comic timing – into one unique comedy showcase.

Mark Christopher Lawrence has made appearances on NBC’s hit series Chuck, Murphy Brown, Seinfeld, Martin, etc., as well as in motion pictures The Pursuit of Happyness and Terminator 2: Judgement Day.

Mark Christopher Lawrence performed at 7:30 PM and 9:45 PM on Friday, May 31, 2019 and Saturday, June 1, 2019 at the Comedy Loft at the Bier Baron Tavern at 1523 22nd NW, Washington, DC., 20037. For future shows go to www.dcomedyloft.com

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