How I Invented Hip Hop… And Other Faux Pas

Catriona Ruth Paterson — Sat, 13 Aug 2011 15:35:35 +0000

Rhymes and beats gentleman style. Mr B, the Gentleman Rhymer presents this show of a genre he entitles “Chap-hop” (rapping and singing over looped electro-swing beats whilst playing the underused Banjolele.
Mr B is a moustachioed gentleman here to correct our English, dear chaps, using the power of music. Opening with a selection of rock power ballads done chap style, ranging from Kiss through to Slayer he is immediately a crowd pleaser. Interjecting each song with a little commentary he continues to play for the most part, songs in the same vein (a particularly strong moment in the Bavarian styled interpretation of Kraftwerk’s Model.)
The joke does however begin to become slightly repetitive during the course of the next hour and feels very much like a one gag joke and strong 15minute cabaret slot that has been stretched into a slightly thin hour show. Mr B needs to work on his crowd interaction and develop his character more for talking with the crowd (if you’re going to advocate always wearing Tweed, at least wear some yourself) as it is lacking and his original songs, which are again part of his stronger work are neither naughty or political enough to give any real satirical bite.
Mr B is no stranger to the Cabaret Scene but needs to take it to the next level of character development for this to become a truly stand-out piece of entertainment. Worth attending, particularly if you’re going to White Mink at the Voodoo Rooms straight after, otherwise there’s stronger Cabaret out there. Tally-ho!

3/5

Success: A Success Story

Jason Nairn — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 09:00:39 +0000

Kieran & The Joes are a team of aspirational business gurus who are out to prove that you don’t necessarily have to be the best man to get the job. In their world, absolutely anyone can succeed!
The Joes have hired a new recruit called Kieran to be their assistant who, whilst a perfectly pleasant chap, is clearly not the brightest button in the box. The first Joe suspects that Kieran may not quite be up to the task. The other Joe just wants an apprentice and is determined that Kieran is the man for the job, regardless of his ability, and at any cost.
Presented as a seminar on how to be successful at everything and using a variety of sketches, vignettes, spoof tutorials and even a bit of song, this hour long free show is a refreshing comedy which should have you laughing from start to finish. Taking swipes at the Business community and masculinity, these guys prove that not only the strong survive in a dog eat dog world. The three protagonists are perfect in their roles and are surely ones to watch out for at future festivals and televisions. Be warned though, you may never look at chocolate mousse in the same way ever again.
Definitely worth a view if you’re looking for light-hearted laugh in the afternoon. Just watch out for rogue surgeons.

4/5

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How I Invented Hip Hop… And Other Faux Pas

Success: A Success Story