Melbourne International Comedy Festival review by Steve Bennett

Steen Raskopoulos is well aware that the two words most comedy festival punters most dread are ‘audience’ and ‘participation’.

He offers reassurance that all will be fine, and once we are lured in, like ducks to bread thrown into the pond, we’ll enjoy the experience. He doesn’t mention that bread is bad for ducks’ health…

Raskopoulos’s aim is not to harm or humiliate, but to make heroes of those whom he selects. Sometimes almost literally, as they are called upon to dispel three-headed monsters or run a gauntlet of challenges as the set-pieces plays out. Even when it seems terrifying – the demand to take part in a spontaneous rap battle springs to mind – the reality is not so intimidating.

Although the atmosphere is supportive, much is still placed on the shoulders of the chosen. One poor guy, understandably and forgivably, was poleaxed by shyness on stage. Despite words of encouragement, his imagination was frozen by fear, and his scene fell flat. However other victims prove more than equal to the tasks set, their reaction to Raskopoulos’s already witty scenarios adding spontaneity and laughs.

It’s generous of him to share the spotlight, as in the solo segments he showcases his formidable character comedy chops. Fans of previous shows will be especially delighted to see the return of orthodox Greek film reviewer, Yanni Constanopoulos, a cult-in-waiting, as he chants his opinion of Disney’s Frozen.

Raskopoulos, who is about to star in the BBC comedy Top Coppers, slips convincingly into his alter egos, all of who have an energy that dominates the room. Several scenes foreshadow future events, making the experience richer as the narrative pieces slot neatly into place – and effective use of a soundtrack helps the epic feel too.

This is a communal show, and a Communional one as the bread-eating analogy extends to an almost religious level. It’s a shared experience strengthened by the uniqueness of the one-night-only performance and the way we’re all rooting for those brought into the spotlight, and secretly thankful it’s not us – even if Raskopoulos is relatively gentle with his reluctant assistants.

Review date: 9 Apr 2015
Reviewed by: Steve Bennett
Reviewed at: Melbourne International Comedy Festival