This show has a little bit of everything. A genuine potpourri of many of the best elements of a successful fringe show.
There was singing, dancing, music, drama, mime, clowning, storytelling, even Dad jokes (with a twist). An imaginary car (or was it real?) serves as the vehicle and what a fun ride it was!
The set-up is a meandering journey through Sam and Shane’s entertaining lives and allows the boys to showcase their many talents.
On one level they are in an old banger on their way to a gig in the outback, but the journey is peppered with reflections on events and episodes from their careers. It’s interesting how many of the best anecdotes derive from the worst experiences.
The two protagonists are both excellent.
Sam Longley has been around the local theatre/ improv scene for a long time and has wonderful comedic timing as well as the acting chops to convey the debonair yet world-weary thespian. Sam’s soliloquy on the art of mime is very funny – a speech about a silent art form ? And it is obvious that Shane looks up to him but also needles him in a mischievous, younger brother sort of way.
Shane Adamczak is not only responsible for the script but also plays the cheeky yet nerdy guy to a T. His physical clowning had the audience in stitches and as with Sam his delivery is superb. I think we all have a lot to thank WAAPA for, nurturing and encouraging talents such as Shane.
I particularly liked the interplay between Sam and Shane. Despite the much-heralded tightness of the script and well-rehearsed performance, there were still many moments where they clearly amused each other and I suspect that there was a fair bit of impromptu stuff which snuck in there.
Unfortunately, it is only a short run for this great little show. Do yourself a favour and catch these loveable fellas while you can.