Review by Helen Ackrill

Rarely has mime been so beautifully executed by two women wearing raincoats, dancing to an Eighties pop soundtrack. The Kagools combine slapstick with interpretive dance and a very expensive-looking projector screen.

Visual comedians often get laughs come from choosing audience members to perform tasks. The Kagools are no different, but unlike acts like The Boy With Tape On His Face they prefer to make silly childish jokes than references to pop culture. One woman played musical chairs; others took part in fancy-dress musical statues; then there's a water pistol fight. It felt at times like being stuck somewhere between a kids’ party and a Thorpe Park ride.

Where they differ from other visual comedians is their interaction with technology. As they run behind a large screen in the centre of the stage, a video plays of the pair doing similar movements to give the impression of continuity. This swiftly turns into simple but amusing sight gags.

The main issue, like with so many mime artists, is what to do if the joke doesn’t get a laugh. There were a few occasions when the silences stretched a little too long and the lack of noise was unsettling. The pair (Nicky Wilkinson and Claire Ford, previously known as Wilkinson Ford) come alive with large eyes and silly grins whenever music is playing, but tend to look blankly at the audience when it stops. The bemused stares could easily be part of the childlike act, but some more encouragement from them to gee up the crowd wouldn’t go amiss.

This show works so well because it is perfect viewing for all ages and nationalities. There’s enough subtle adult content to keep the majority amused, whilst disgusting things like wiping food down audience member’s clothing will have the little ones in stitches. A word of warning if you don’t want to get soaked, bring your own kagool.

Review date: 17 Aug 2015
Reviewed by: Helen Ackrill
Reviewed at: Just the Tonic at The Mash House