This portrait of a multi-ethnic comic troupe could do with more unpicking, but its reflections on the grind of war, life on the road and the reactive nature of comedy are insightfulIt must surely, sometimes, seem to everyone involved that the name shou…
Continue ReadingThe comedian on non-verbal heckles, one-legged dancing before gigs and his new show about benchesWhy did you get into comedy?I was told the only copy of a map to the lost, golden city of Paititi was hidden in the green-room toilet (ie, sink) of a UK co…
Continue ReadingSoho Theatre Walthamstow, LondonShe draws us in with bursts of manic physical expression and never stops poking fun at her own quirks and compulsions‘Why did Americans decide to elect a dictator for a second time?” a freshly post-somersaulted Maria Bam…
Continue ReadingComedians, theatre-makers and actors including Rachel Weisz, Sally Phillips and Simon Munnery recall the late teacher’s alarming lessonsPhilippe Gaulier, clown guru, dies aged 82Louise Brealey Continue reading…
Continue ReadingThe Canadian performer visited hospices, mystics and cemeteries to research Age Is a Feeling. The show, which has now been performed in 10 languages, has reduced men in their 70s to tearsIt is the summer of 2024 and Haley McGee is performing Age Is a F…
Continue ReadingSoho theatre, LondonThe former child magician from New York combines PowerPoint and personal trauma in an off-Broadway import that packs a considerable punchTwo species of modern standup jostle for pre-eminence in Josh Sharp’s hit off-Broadway import t…
Continue ReadingSadler’s Wells East, LondonThe all-male French troupe Chicos Mambo mix parody and pointework in a fast-paced comic celebration of dance’s high art and sillier sideWhen the curtain goes up here in east London, just across town there’s another opening ni…
Continue ReadingThe Complicité founder remembers his teacher’s wicked laughter, provocative demands and infinite generosity• Philippe Gaulier dies aged 82Many speak of a teacher in their childhood who changed them, someone who reveals knowledge about the world they ca…
Continue ReadingIt’s the part of myself I’m most frequently embarrassed by – but as comedy festival season approaches, I’m prepared for the worstI thought Daniel Kitson was just about ready to kick me out of the comedy room. He had already picked on me several times …
Continue ReadingThe master clown helped generations of performers be more alive in the moment – and not take themselves too seriously. His teachings were for life as well as the stage• Philippe Gaulier, clown guru and mentor to theatre and comedy greats, dies aged 82W…
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