The thrill [and sometimes the dread] of improv is that absolutely anything can happen.
I have always felt that improv is the ultimate definition of winging it. You go into a show with a basic understanding of what's supposed to happen, but the lines are on you and anyone else you are performing with. I have seen many an improv show fall flat on its face from jokes that were way too niche, performers having an off night, and terrible audience suggestions. BUT... when a troupe can get it right, it's a glorious night of electrifying entertainment.
Bad Clowns was thankfully the latter! Comprising of three perfomers: Christian Dart, Sam Walls, and John Bond, they play a prince, a private counsel, and a slop boy, respectively, who all compete to determine who will become the king. What ensues is utmost hilarity!
The mark of a great improv actor, to me, is the ability to roll with it if things go wrong! Given that it was a preview night at the fringe, I was expecting this to happen, but the way in which they handled issues was comedy gold. It's clear that this isn't their first time at the rodeo!
Their crowd working is second to none, and the audience particpation gags are at the expense of themselves rather than the audience member, which is honestly so refreshing. It makes it easier for the audience to laugh, which they really don't need help with at a show this fantastic!
It's difficult to review an improv show because the very nature of it is to change each night, so I'll leave you with this:
I never thought I would so happily give a 5 star review and a Fantastic Fringe Award to a show that had an actor tell my wife to go f*ck herself!
Bad Clowns are the real deal! Please, please, please go see their show and bring your friends. Hell, bring your enemies too, maybe you'll become best friends for introducing them to such an amazing show.
☆☆☆☆☆
As the song from the show [that I also can't get out of my head] says "Long live the king!" and long live you having a fantastic time at fringe!
Love,
Tony x
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