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Latest items? Unedited? Fringe Report Uncut
Beast of Theatre - Chris Lynam
Verdict: Manic
London - Soho Theatre - 9-14 May 05 - 21:30 (22:30)
Chris Lynam became a cult in the cabaret/alternative comedy explosion in the 80s and early 90s, best known as one of the Greatest Show on Legs, for pyrotechnics, and his firework-up-the-bum stunt. His ambling appearance indicates what to expect, and the mismatched socks showing below his short trousers. The toothbrush-in-the-lapel buttonhole, and long thick hair standing on end, don't mislead. But they don't prepare the ground for the manic personality-trait underlying the clown's persona.
Tonight's show is publicised as a revival. Chris Lynam riffs for an hour through his greatest hits, with few variations on previous themes. These include stealing an audience member's shoe and auctioning it; killing a terrorist carrier bag that attacks him and the audience; using a balloon as if it was a cigarette while reading poetry. He plays banjo, at one point bringing a woman on stage to be a human music stand; makes a cake dressed in fishnet stockings, high platform stilettoes, miniskirt, blond wig.
Meanwhile he's clowning, quipping, doing bits of comedy and magic business. At one point he refers to it all as 'Bloody tragic'. Someone walking into the show halfway through - without seeing the build-up where he's won the audience's trust and friendship - might agree.
Audience participation is a highlight. It relies on people almost - but fearfully not quite - believing that Chris Lynam is a delightfully charming clown who wouldn't intend to hurt a fly. The main feature is a staging of Frankie and Johnny - with Chris Lynam as director - by three punters who seem luckily talented at improvisation.
The audience are indulged and gratified when he does his notorious firework routine - naked - while they sing Wonderful World. It's a fun hour for anyone whose inner child is awake, or who misses good old days before commercial comedy. Sadly Chris Lynam doesn't reprise his long-ago slide onto stage on a wire dressed as a fairy. Maybe next time.
Credits: Performed by Chris Lynam. Writer (unknown). Director (unknown). Technical Operator (unknown).
END
(c) Hils Jago 2005
reviewed Wednesday 11 May 05 / Soho Theatre
Fringe Report (c) Fringe Report 2002-2012
www.fringereport.com
