Friday 14 April 2017

Nautilus review - Melbourne International Comedy Festival

Of all the silent comedies I've seen, none have spoken to me more than Trygve Wakenshaw's Nautilus. The New Zealand born, London based comedian is back at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival with his uproarious one-man multiple-characters silent comedy show that is bound to amuse and delight audiences.

He appears on stage in a grey suit and shirt with bright red socks that immediately stand out. This fashion oddity is the perfect way to describe Wakenshaw and his show as he starts breaking out in some seriously over the top but wicked dance moves to Justice's "D.A.N.C.E". Once the music cuts, he instantly takes the form of his first character, which happens to be a chicken. But this isn't your standard just-for-laughs chicken; this is a chicken with a defined personality and purpose seeking to answer one of life's most elusive mysteries.

Wakenshaw plays a number of animals throughout Nautilus, such as cows, sheep and crabs, but he imbues them with such humanity and depth that you easily forget they are animals. I have never related to a raptor before and never thought I would, but seeing this particular one go through its routine of trying to get to sleep changed all that.

While these stand-alone sketches are hilarious in their own right, Wakenshaw cleverly returns to these characters in cameo or supporting roles, building a world for these inhabitants rather than just a single scene. In doing so, he subtly reminds us that everything and everyone is connected and our actions do have an effect, both in Natilus' world and in ours.

Wakenshaw gives his all during Nautilus and his ridiculously high level of energy level never wanes, resulting in a hugely rewarding experience for all. If you're seeking a show that is a little bit weird but full of heart and with plenty of laughs, then you cannot miss Nautilus. Put simply, Trygve Wakenshaw is a comedy genius.

Click here to read my interview with Trygve Wakenshaw.

Venue: The Famous Spiegeltent at Arts Centre Melbourne, 100 St. Kilda Rd, Melbourne.
Season: Until 22 April | Tues - Sat 9.50pm, Sun 8:50pm
Length: 75 minutes
Tickets: $36 Full | $33 Conc
| $30 Tightarse Tuesday
Bookings: MICF website

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