Wednesday, April 4, 2012

Comedy Festival Review: Michael Workman - Mercy

The Winner of the 2011 MICF Best Newcomer award returns for his second solo show. It is one thing to burst onto the scene with an award winning performance, the challenge is to back that up with the second release. Michael Workman’s second show proves he is a quality act.

Showcasing his talents (which he has in spades) Mercy is equal parts cartoon drawings, music, and story telling. There is nothing about this show that could be described as ‘stand-up’. There are no set ups and no punch lines. Most of the laughs are derived by sublime timing, clever word play, phrasing and subtle yet pointed facial expressions.

Mercy is a heart warming and thoroughly researched narrative. Workman is quietly spoken, understated and almost apologetic. The audience lap it up, hanging on his every word and image. The ‘Shark Facts’ song is whimsical and silly creating an unexpected diversion in the show.

Be ready to think though, the humour is cleverly woven into the monologue and unless the audience is paying attention, much of the wit will be missed.

One risk of a narrative style is that the details of the story limit the opportunities for humour, if there one disappointment in this show it is that Workman falls for this trap. I particularly wanted more comedy in the drawings. Having said that, it is a beautiful story, and wonderfully told.

Mercy is a show that would equally belong in a festival of drama, as it does in one focused on comedy. Audiences who are sick of jokes about relationships, alcohol and social observation, and want some quality theatre will love Workman’s show.

For more Melbourne International Comedy Festival reviews check out The Pun www.anewleaf.com.au

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