Laughter doesn’t suit me.
Whereas some lucky souls have the ability to transform themselves through laughter into seemingly angelic entities, positively brimming with radiance and joy, I am doomed to mutate with every torrent of giggles into something rather less cinematic. So it is with a touch of trepidation that I look forward to the New Zealand International Comedy Festival. Rioting through Wellington from 29 April until 22 May, the Festival offers everything from stand-up to musical comedy, so rest assured that your favourite flavour of funny is on offer. There will be Salient reviewers braving laughter-inspired facial disfigurement for five of the upcoming Comedy Festival shows, all of which I seem to have an opinion on, despite not yet having seen them.
The Boy with Tape on his Face by Sam Wills: May 2 – 7 at San Francisco Bathhouse. I predict an engaging, surprising and altogether charming silent-comedy from this man, along with a fair bit of audience participation.
Grown Up by Brad Zimmerman: May 3 – 7 at Club Ivy. I predict a show which will be enjoyed by anyone who isn’t totally sure how to go about becoming an ‘adult’ and wonders whether it really has to happen to them. I hear that it’s highly relatable and should be a little gem.
Dan is Dead / I am a Yeti by Natalie Medlock and Dan Musgrove: May 10 – 14 at BATS.
I predict that you’ll either love or, ummm, strongly dislike this zany new work from the powerfully observant comedy duo. It could be hilarious but maybe only if you’re a cool kid from Auckland.
Messenger (Please Do Not Shoot) by Danny Bhoy: May 13 – 14 at the Opera House. I predict that Salient might not be able to get tickets to this show since it’s nearly sold out. Danny Bhoy is mind-bendingly, heart-wrenchingly, spine-tinglingly funny. He is also Irish and just a tad easy on the eyes. I consider it my duty to watch his show and so should you.
Politics the Musical by the Improvisors: May 17 – 21 at Circa Two. I predict that those who don’t know a thing about politics will have a cracker of a time at this show but that those who do will have even more fun.