Review by Corry Shaw

Billed as sketch + sit com = Sketch-com, this is more a play than anything else – but comedy trio Rule of Three have certainly put a lot of thought and work into this fast-paced, high-energy show, combining their talent for writing with some superb acting and direction.

The storyline is a simple one, friendless Simon – played by James Card – is trying to arrange his own birthday party with the aid of his sister Ruth (Roisin Rae) and her partner Ben (Brooks Livermore). The narrative is unremarkable but what makes this production unique is the vast range of supporting characters played by the trio. I lost count at character number 18. The direction is impressive with each character distinct and well-developed – even the smaller roles are carefully written and performed.

We meet a couple of relationship gurus who work their way into the audience, battling for the affections of the front row to make each other jealous. A bodybuilder is a particularly impressive comedy creation; Livermore plays this hapless wannabe stud with a delicate touch and makes the unlikable endearing. We've also got tramps, pizza delivery men, power -lunching salesmen, Australian barmen, dating agency staff, strippers and bosses with a fetish for nostrils. It is a whirlwind of personas all played brilliantly by the tiny cast.

Card, Livermore and Rae all have a natural ability to morph into whichever role they are presented with, and their talent for accents is as extensive as it is impressive. They are superb actors who switch between characters in a heartbeat remaining convincing and hugely entertaining.

Even more impressive is that the group directed the piece themselves which must have been a mammoth task, the choreography between scene and character changes is airtight and effective. There is a nod to the challenges the endeavour throws up when two feuding characters, both played by Rae, are described as being 'literally not able to be in the same room as each other at the same time' with a knowing wink to the audience.

The ambition behind this piece is apparent and for the most part the trio succeed in the task, but I would have liked to have seen one or two characters less and had a little more focus on the storyline, which occasionally feels stretched just to make room for another face.

That said, the extra faces make for a tremendous finale where each character takes their bow in an ever-changing conga line. This is exceptionally clever and entertaining stuff played out by a superbly flexible and talented cast.

Review date: 27 Aug 2010
Reviewed by: Corry Shaw