Category Archives: Review

NZICF 2013: Doctor Brown in Befrdfgth

Posted by faithashw in Comedy, Review and tagged with , , , , , , , , , , ,

Dr Brown in Befrdfgth

They say silence is golden and this could not ring truer with Doctor Brown’s befrdfgth – the name alone should spark enough curiosity to get a ticket!  This award-winning wordless show is one of the strangest most ridiculous theatrical acts I have ever seen.

The tension and anticipation that builds in the first ten minutes really foreshadows what is to come that is us, the audience, waiting with bated breath both in trepidation and excitement at what the cloaked wizard-esque Doctor Brown will do next.  The show starts off innocently enough – a sneaky bag-snatching and a playful game of tag with members of the audience.  We are lulled into a false sense of security that this is all the show is going to be about.

When the Doctor finally reveals himself we are thrown headfirst in to the rabbit hole, very much like Alice in Wonderland.  Through animated hand gestures and often comical facial expressions, Doctor Brown embodies a number of characters and we are transported to many odd places, each one getting weirder than the next.  It is not immediately clear what is happening, or what Doctor Brown is trying to tell us.  This is definitely a show that requires you to have an open mind and allow your imagination to run wild.

Doctor Brown challenges the boundaries of theatre and breaks the Fourth Wall as he runs around invading people’s personal space, clambering over audience members and even throwing personal items away (one was a reviewer’s notepad – glad it wasn’t mine!).  The whole theater becomes the stage and audience members become potential playthings or participants in the madness that unfolds.

It’s not easy holding an audience’s attention for a whole hour particularly without using words but Phil Burgers does this effortlessly and masterfully.  Stuart Bowden, the other performer on stage may only jump in intermittently and on cue but his natural aptitude with the humble ukulele provide the perfect soundtrack for this very bizarre anti-comedy.

Doctor Brown in befrdfgth is wonderfully weird, utterly unpredictable and absolutely hysterical!  A dark yet whimsical world of “absurdist mime” that every avid theatre goer must experience.

The Whimsical Banana rates Doctor Brown’s befrdfgth:  4/5 bananas!

Doctor Brown in befrdfgth is on for two more nights at the Herald Theatre – for tickets, click here.

NZICF 2013: Idiots of Ants – Model Citizens

Posted by faithashw in Comedy, Review and tagged with , , , , , , , , ,

Idiots Of Ants

If you’re looking to venture beyond the regular stand up routines and experience some alternative comedy at this year’s festival, I have three words for you: Idiots of Ants.  Their show is a riotous and action-packed hour of fast-paced sketch comedy and the best part is we get to be a part of the fun too!

Model Citizens is a mad barrage of hilarious short stories presented by Andrew Spiers, Elliott Tiney, Benjamin Wilson and James Wrighton, who are the talented foursome that make up Idiots of Ants.  As soon as the show kicks off the Fourth Wall is torn down with the first short story – a prospective flatmate who loves the place except for the fact that the flat comes with an audience.

The rest of the show carries on in this comedic vein.  Each skit is excellently written, masterfully crafted and superbly performed.  There are musical magazines, conversations at gunpoint and a casual game of toss-the-baby – and of course an expected encore of the comical “hens night gone wrong” skit which they performed at the Comedy Gala.  The boys are skilled performers and have great command of the stage, transitioning between each skit quickly and seamlessly.

There is no one stand-out sketch as they are all brilliant in their own right but a fully grown man dressed as a baby and swearing like a sailor truly is quite a sight to behold!  The very funny “the man who took the audience to dinner” pseudo-love song was another favorite of mine.  Yes, they can sing too!

It’s no surprise these boys won the NZICF Best International Show Award last year as they are, put simply, a class act.  Model Citizens is a definite must see – it’s extremely clever, wildly entertaining and just so much fun!  An outstanding hour of improv that is best experienced live.

The Whimsical Banana rates Model Citizens: 5/5 bananas!

Just 3 chances left to catch this fantastic sketch group in action at the fabulous Rangatira at Q so don’t miss out – get in quick!  Click here for tickets.

NZICF 2013: Stephen K Amos – The Spokesman

Posted by faithashw in Comedy, Review and tagged with , , , , , , , ,

Stephen K Amos

If you are in to stand up comedy, Stephen K Amos needs no introduction.  He is a household name in the comedic circuit and there is a reason for it – he is bloody good at what he does!

Stephen is back with a new show this year – The Spokesman – which comes from not only a passing comment that he would make a good spokesperson but more interestingly it also happens to be an anagram of his name.   He doesn’t make too much reference to this however; instead he focuses more on heroes and role models and this is a recurring theme which gets interspersed throughout the show amidst his usual style of sharing his observations and personal experiences.

Throughout the hour, we learn about the time he met the Queen, his fear of water and why he believes Jesus is a comedian – to name a few.  Most of the stories were actually ones he had shared in his previous show and though they were just as funny to hear again, I do wish we got to hear more new material!

He also spends a fair bit of time poking fun at our neighbors across the ditch which naturally sat very well with a Kiwi audience.  Comedians are generally really good at mimicking accents but I’ve always marveled at how particularly adept Stephen is at them, particularly the Australian accent.

Stephen’s greatest strength is his innate ability to establish a wonderful rapport with his audience which he uses to his full advantage and incorporates seamlessly into his set.  The show soon becomes much like an open forum with Stephen asking questions, conducting experiments and welcoming feedback from the crowd.  You don’t often find an audience at a comedy gig so willing to be “picked on” but in this show it felt like people were competing to be heard – at one point even audience members started heckling other audience members!

Stephen K Amos truly is a well seasoned veteran and an absolute master at his craft.  The Spokesman has the same “feel good” quality that is very signature Stephen K Amos and is off-the-cuff comedy at it’s very best.

The Whimsical Banana rates The Spokesman: 4/5 bananas!

Stephen K Amos is performing at the Rangatira at Q until Saturday May 4th.  For tickets, click here.  He will then perform just the ONE show at The Opera House in Wellington on May 5th – click here for tickets.

NZICF 2013: Elis James

Posted by faithashw in Comedy, Review and tagged with , , , , , , ,

Elis James

Elis James is not only a top notch comedian, he is the consummate storyteller.  And the reviews are all true – this lovely Welshman really is one of the most likeable comics around.

There is a lot to love and laugh about in this hour-long show.  Elis’ friendly persona coupled with his wonderfully animated style of storytelling make him an absolute joy to watch.  Over the course of the show, we are treated to a myriad of hilarious anecdotes from getting “song raped” to that one time he had a brief but eventful connection with One Directions’ Harry Styles.

Each tale is structured superbly and delivered flawlessly but what really takes it to the next level is the accompanying comical re-enactments and the odd song and dance which are slipped in at just the opportune moments in the narrative.  This performance element adds a whole new layer of comedy and entertainment to an already outstanding set.

As the show progresses, each story becomes increasingly funnier and more ludicrous that it’s almost too good to be true.  Yet Elis recounts them with such authenticity and conviction that you are completely captivated and buy in to what he is telling you – the mark of an exceptional raconteur.

I cannot recommend this show enough – the material is delightfully witty, highly engaging and funny as hell.  Ellis makes being a stand up comedian absolutely effortless.  Another fantastic and super talented up-and-comer everybody should have their eyes on.

The Whimsical Banana rates Elis James: 5/5 bananas!

Elis James will be performing at The Classic Studio until May 11th (not the 5th).  For tickets, click here.

Due to popular demand, Elis has added an extra show on Saturday May 11th at 5:30pm!

NZICF 2013: Chris Martin – Spot The Difference

Posted by faithashw in Comedy, Review and tagged with , , , , , , , , ,

Chris Martin - Spot the Difference

If you’ve ever wondered how you win at yoga or if you think pugs are not real dogs, Chris Martin’s original brand of dry and witty observational comedy is sure to hit the spot.  Returning to New Zealand after his debut in 2012, Chris is back on our shores with a brand new show.

Throughout the hour, Chris shares with us a whirlwind of anecdotes which mostly center around his anxieties (like finding mangoes intimidating) and slightly morbid obsessions, like how he would react if he ever got attacked and also how he’d like to die.  He is an accomplished comedian whose material is intelligently written, captivating and dripping with cynicism yet you will leave feeling anything but jaded.

I was most impressed by his confidence and effortless command of both the stage and the crowd.  Even a confused whispering audience member whose phone subsequently rang didn’t faze him – he took it in his stride and handled it brilliantly, as if it was all part of the set.  He has a natural charm and friendly disposition which is evident through his regular interactions and banter with the audience.

His ability to inject humor into just about anything is what makes this such an excellent and enjoyable show.  He tends to dip in and out of stories and go off on tangents – I wondered if we would ever find out what the deal was with that teapot! – but he does so masterfully; all the time holding our attention with ease, keeping us hooked and wanting more.

Spot The Difference is loads of fun, endlessly entertaining and genuinely very funny.  Chris is definitely one to watch as he is undoubtedly one of the rising stars in the comedy circuit.  I already cannot wait for his next show!

The Whimsical Banana rates Spot The Difference: 5/5 bananas!                                                                                                                                            

Chris Martin is performing at The Classic until Saturday May 4th (click here for tickets) before heading to Wellington where he will be performing at The San Francisco Bathhouse from May 7th (click here for tickets).  He is also part of this year’s Comedy Convoy which kicks off May 13th.

NZICF 2013: Comedy All Stars – First Night at the BMC

Posted by faithashw in Comedy, Review and tagged with , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Comedy All Stars

This year’s ensemble comedy night at the Bruce Mason Centre was a “best of the British” affair and boy was it an absolute cracker!

Stuart Goldsmith, the  “dirty – but in a good way” compère was loads of fun and effortlessly kept the audience not only well and truly entertained but in high spirits (and hysterics!) throughout.  His charm and charisma is truly infectious – very disappointed that he is not doing a solo show!

Kicking things off was Welshman Elis James who regaled us with hilarious stories about a drunken couple at a wedding and the time he was a one-song-wonder Christmas caroler.  His seamless ability to tell a bloody good story – which includes amusing re-enactments – coupled with his likeable persona will leave you wanting more. 

Up next was the affable Andrew Bird who kept the audience hooked with his animated slice-of-life anecdotes.  His tales ranged from family life involving his “pet human” to dealing with vague cooking measurements (I will never read “knob of butter” the same again!) to my personal favorite – his failed attempt at being not at home at home.

Markus Birdman brought along a slight change in energy with his more edgy style of comedy.  His material is a little on the crass side so is not for everyone but if you are not easily offended, he is an entertaining act.  Talking candidly about sex, relationships and neo-Nazi fashion, he leaves no stone unturned.

After the interval, James Acaster takes to the stage.  He really impressed me at the Comedy Gala so was very keen to see more!  Do not be fooled by the understated demeanor and deadpan style – he is sharp as a tack.  His set is self-indulgent but not in an arrogant way and is incredibly witty and delivered impeccably.

Closing the show is Chris Martin, another favorite of mine from the Gala.  He easily captures and holds the audience’s attention as he relays his jaded perspective of every day things.  His material is deliciously cynical but oddly compelling and easy to relate to.  And most importantly, it’s funny as hell!

Most if not all of these superb acts are performing again at the BMC this coming Saturday (May 4th).  If you are looking to get some laughs this weekend, look no further!  To buy tickets and for more details, click here.

You can also catch them at The Big Show which runs weeks 2 and 3 of the festival – click here for details.

The Whimsical Banana rates Comedy All Stars: 5/5 bananas!

NZICF 2013: Comedy Gala

Posted by faithashw in Comedy, Review and tagged with , , , , , , ,

Comedy Gala 2013

And we’re off!  The New Zealand International Comedy Festival officially launched on Friday night with the inaugural comedy gala.

This year marks the Comedy Festival’s 21st year and I couldn’t think of a better venue to commemorate this milestone than at the majestic Civic Theatre.  Hosted by comedy veteran and 7 Days host Jeremy Corbett, the gala was a laughs aplenty marathon featuring a stellar lineup of 21 local and international comedians.

With just four minutes to impress us and form a lasting impression, Corbett likens the night to speed dating which is a great way to describe it!  For the comedy-uninitiated, the gala provides the perfect tasting plate for what is on offer during the festival for the next three weeks.

From gripes about how we rely on smartphones for everything to taboo toilet humor to a skit about a hen’s night gone wrong, there was plenty to laugh about!  A stand out for me was Chris Martin who I thought did a brilliant set – I will never look at pugs the same way again!  Newcomer James Acaster had the crowd sold from the word “apricots”; I thought his low energy set was an unexpected but welcome change of pace – I really enjoyed his unassuming yet incredibly witty style of comedy.

The locals were natural crowd favorites using good ol’ colloquial Kiwi humor to tickle our funny bone.  And of course no gala will be the same without New Zealand’s claim to fame in the comedic world, the wonderful The Boy with Tape on his Face!  He did one of my personal favorite bits from More Tape and I was delighted to see that there have been a couple of tweaks since last year’s season.

If you didn’t manage to get a ticket and are gutted you missed out, don’t fret!  The event was filmed and this will be broadcast tonight (Sunday) at 8:35pm – or 9:35pm if you have TV3 +1!

I would also like to take this opportunity to plug the TV3 People’s Choice Award.  This award coincides with a very cool competition with an über awesome prize – all you have to do is vote for your favorite local comedian – and you and a friend and the comedian you voted for could be headed to the Melbourne International Comedy Festival!

It’s going to be a busy and laugh-filled next few weeks and I’m looking forward to every minute of it!  For dates, tickets and all things NZICF, head on over to www.comedyfestival.co.nz

Go on, New Zealand.  It’s time to Laugh Yourself Silly!

Apocalypse Z: An Immersive Theatrical Experience

Posted by faithashw in Review, Theatre and tagged with , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Apocalypse Z

Can you imagine quiet and peaceful Auckland being overrun by zombies?   How long do you think you will last in a zombie apocalypse?  Zombies have become quite the phenomenon across a range of entertainment mediums but have yet to make an appearance in live performance…until now.

Apocalypse Z is theatre like you have never experienced before; it is a unique blend of interactive and immersive theatre.  You are invited to suspend your disbelief as the show challenges the conventions of theatre, breaking the Fourth Wall by plunging the audience at the cold face of a zombie outbreak right in the heart of the city.  We are told that the only chance of survival is a safe zone that has been erected at the corner of Aotea Square.

As you make your way in to the outpost, from the armed guard keeping watch up high to the ARC (Armed Rescue Coalition) personnel performing tests on you to ensure you are not infected, you quickly forget reality and easily get sucked in to this world where Auckland is under threat.  The rain certainly helped make things feel all the more ominous!

Once inside the safe house, true to the horror genre, that sense of security is predictably short-lived as a new threat arises in our midst.  As things begin to unravel, the tension and sense of impending danger consequently increasingly escalates. I thought the video wall which revealed CCTV footage of within the outpost and the surrounding grounds was a clever touch.  That combined with some brilliantly timed and executed theatrical effects was very effective in keeping the audience on edge.

Between the polished script by Simon London and David Van Horn, excellent direction and set design by Andrew Foster and superb, authentic performances by the cast, this is one slick theatrical production.  I did feel the boundaries could have been pushed a little bit more though and there could have been potential to make it a lot more terrifying – but that’s just the seasoned horror fan inside me speaking!  Having said that, overall the show is genuinely quite scary and the action and drama that unfolds will get your heart racing.

I do not want to give too much away as the “magic” of the experience is in the fear of the unknown and not knowing what to expect.  It is definitely not for the faint of heart but if you are looking to experience a fresh, thrilling new take on theatre with a bit of bite – pun intended! – and you want to see how you would react in a zombie apocalypse, this is not to be missed!

The Whimsical Banana rates Apocalypse Z: 4/5 flesh-eating bananas!

Well done to Beth Allen, Charlie McDermott, the cast and the rest of the “ZomCrew” – bring on the sequel!

Apocalypze Z is on until 27th April and is brought to you by Royale Productions in association with STAMP at The EDGE.

Ensure your survival and get your ticket to safety now!  Tickets are available here.  I would also recommend checking out whatwillyoudotosurvive.com

Promise and Promiscuity: A New Musical by Jane Austen

Posted by faithashw in Review, Theatre and tagged with , , , , , , , , ,

Promise And PromiscuityPromise and Promiscuity – the title itself immediately peaked my interest.  Directed by Ben Crowder, this fast paced Jane Austen parody provides a refreshing, revamped take on the well-known period drama Pride and Prejudice.

Touted as a new musical, I must preface that this production is so much more than just an hour of song and dance.  The well-crafted script is decidedly cheeky and dripping with irony – the witty double entendres and cleverly tweaked names (my favorite: “Fifty Shades of Argh”) bring this 19th century story to modern day, making it more easily accessible.

I was thoroughly impressed by Penny Ashton who was the woman of the hour.  She skillfully plays the entire cast, switching between each character seamlessly.  There are very minimal costume changes however this is not an issue as each character she portrays has a very distinct voice and set of mannerisms that there is never any ambiguity who she is depicting and when.

The stage feels quite cavernous with sparse props but Ashton makes full use of the performance space, moving between different locations in the story with ease and at one point she even breaks the Fourth Wall by inviting an unsuspecting audience member for an impromptu dance.  The music and sound effects provided by “Musical Maestro Par Excellence” Robbie Ellis further bring the story to life.

As with all other shows featured in the Auckland Fringe, Promise and Promiscuity is only on a very short season.  The final performance is this evening at 6pm so if you are looking for some laughs to finish your weekend, head on over to TAPAC in Western Springs!

For tickets and more information, click here.

The Whimsical Banana rates Promise and Promiscuity: 4/5 bananas!

Promise and Promiscuity is a Hot Pink production and is presented as part of the Auckland Fringe.

Auckland Fringe

One By One: A Love Story Without Words

Posted by faithashw in Review, Theatre and tagged with , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

One By OneThey say actions speak louder than words.  This is exercised to the fullest effect in One By One, a quirky and charming silent show directed by Pedro Ilgenfritz that takes place in a world where words do not yet exist.  Bonnie and Marty’s paths cross in a fortuitous encounter at a park and from that moment on their lives are changed forever.

Katie Burson and Cole Jenkins draw us in and take us along on this adventure of tragi-comic proportions where in the absence of words, exaggeration is key.  Expect lots of comical wide-eyed facial expressions, melodramatic jaunty marches up and down the stage and madcap shenanigans of the slapstick kind.  Burson and Jenkins do all of this effortlessly and with a childlike innocence that perfectly complements and serves the narrative brilliantly.

The other integral element of the show which I thought was executed extremely well was the use of live music to set the pace and tone of each scene.  Jews Brothers band musicians John Ellis and Nigel Gavin are a well-oiled machine – they fittingly employ an eclectic mix of score and sounds throughout this silent love story which I felt really added a great rhythmic pulse to the performance.  Sometimes they don’t get it quite right though and consequently they are directed by the two characters themselves which I thought was a nice touch.

Bonnie and Marty’s breaking of the Fourth Wall doesn’t stop there.  Just as they have invited us in to this playful and musical world of gestures and mime similarly they just as readily jump into ours.  Personal space may be invaded and if you’re lucky enough, you may even get to participate too.

The stage appears stark and bare with only three pieces of furniture and a set of vertical “ribbons” that cross each other to form a skeletal wall.  This inconspicuous minimalist set created by Rachel Walker and though modest is the perfect “blank canvas” for the action that unfolds.

Unfortunately One By One is only running for a very short season – there are only two more opportunities to catch this fun and whimsical homage to silent film and I strongly recommend that you do!  You will be thoroughly entertained and more importantly you will be convinced that a world could exist without spoken word.

For tickets and more information, click here.

The Whimsical Banana rates One By One: 4/5 bananas!

One By One is a production funded by LAB Theatre and is presented as part of the Auckland Fringe.

Auckland Fringe

This review is also featured on Keeping Up With NZ.