Meta-Comedy [by Matt Baker]
Having contested in previous Raw Comedy Quests, Laura Daniel and Tom Sainsbury have an insight into the amateur comedy scene, but, as professional theatre practitioners, they also have an eye and an ear for what works and what doesn’t. This knowledge and awareness has been excellently deconstructed with great clarity in their meta-theatrical comedy show, Snap, Crackle, Pop.
From suppressed homosexuality that manifests itself in mildly aggressive idiocy, to the most brilliant comedic commentary on female comedians, Daniel and Sainsbury provide not only acute observations, but also ironically hilarious characters and material. With such a variety of characters though, it was a shame they weren’t more referentially or practically engaged in each other’s scenes, which would have provided a chance to also expose the comedy community.
There are few comedians who can be as direct in their statements as Daniel and Sainsbury, especially when it comes to subjects that some may deem sensitive, but the concept and style of the show, in addition to their own meta-aware voicemail messages, mean no offence can be genuinely directly taken. From anyone who has seen an amateur comedy night, to those who have been told by colleagues that they’re really funny and should be doing stand up, this is the show you need to see.
Snap, Crackle, Pop played as part of the NZ International Comedy Festival at The Basement until May 9. For details see Comedy Festival.
SEE ALSO: Theatreview.org.nz review by Nik Smythe
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