I use that occasionally. Quite recently too - maybe I need to get some new jokes that aren't from the 1970's.

I think the problem is irony. In Canada, irony is often believed to be a bit like goldy or silvery. Either way, it's higly valuable but often wasted.

For best effect, tell jokes with a dead-pan face and watch the consternation ripple across their faces.

In fairness, I have seen some very funny observational Canadian comedians at our local Yuk Yuks.