The last time the Reduced Shakespeare Company ventured onto our fine land, they weren’t greeted with the warmest welcome. So, to be honest, we were a little surprised to hear that they’d be back. But back they came, and it’s clear to see that despite their experiences in Northern Ireland, the trio have a soft spot for little old Newtownabbey; after all from oppression comes the greatest laughs.
Arriving at Newtownabbey’s Theatre At The Mill, The Complete History of Comedy (Abridged) is a whirlwind of hijinks, frolics and laughs that is guaranteed to both teach you something and tickle your funny bone at the same time. Told through the premise of the 13 chapters of ‘The art of Comedy’ (an ancient Chinese book written by Sun Tzu’s younger brother Ah Tsu – get it?) we are taken on a journey through the history of comedy from its inception to the present day.
With ramshackle costume and props, one-liners and slapstick comedy the style is distinctly American, which doesn’t always hit the mark for the Northern Irish crowd. As with all Reduced productions, I find it takes a while to warm to their style of show, it’s not laugh-a-minute and I didn’t find myself crinkled up at any point, but it is very very amusing. There are also a lot of Northern Irish and British based jokes which is great to see them tailoring the show to the audience itself.
The show is touring the UK at the minute, with loads of Irish dates still to go. To find more information and to book tickets click here.
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