If you are an avid Parks & Recreation fan like myself, you are no stranger to the magnificent moustachioed-man Nick Offerman, who plays Ron Swanson. When I found out that he was touring the country with his on–and off–screen wife, Megan Mullally (Tammy 2), I knew I had to get tickets.
After months of excited anticipation, November finally came around. I had the chance to see him perform his stand-up routine in Boston at the Wilbur Theater. Sadly, due to her commitment in a Broadway show, Megan Mullally was unable to be a part of the act. However, Nick’s solo show, entitled “Full Bush,” did not disappoint.
What I loved was that it showed the many dimensions of the, somewhat elusive, Nick Offerman. To my joy, he does share a lot of characteristics with his Parks & Rec character. He owns a wood shop, loves meat, enjoys a glass of whiskey, and has that same infamous giggle that we know and love. What came as a surprise was that the majority of his show was musical! He played a lot of original (and of course, comedic) songs (some of them played on a ukulele that he made in his wood shop). Who knew Ron had pipes?
Nick also showed his incredibly raunchy side. His humor was explicit and dirty, but witty and hilarious. Not for the faint of heart, but enjoyable for those of us who want to see into the mind of the real Nick Offerman.
You may be wondering why the show was called “Full Bush.” Aside from the obvious sexual connotation, Nick explained that “full bush” is a way of life–meaning you should always give 100% in your various endeavors. Reminiscent of a quote from Ron in Parks & Rec, “never half-ass two things, whole-ass one thing,” Offerman encouraged the audience to do everything with all of one’s effort and passion. In between lines of crude humor, he had a real message to share with the crowd.
One of the highlights of the show was the finale. He closed his act singing “5,000 Candles in the Wind” from Parks & Rec (RIP Lil Sebastian!). Everyone joined him in song and we all got to pay tribute to our “horsiest friend.” Needless to say, thunderous applause followed the performance as Offerman waved and exited the stage.
P.S.–Good news! Nick and Megan are doing their tour together next year, so you can see the dynamic duo perform sometime next fall!