There are two battered chairs, a box of props, and music loud enough to make ears bleed. The first sketch is about Jonny (Jonny Sweet) giving Joe (Joe Thomas) a horse. The fact that he lives in a bungalow and is supposed to ride it at Ascot doesn't deter Jonny from getting Joe to accept the gift. It's funny, and they're like an Odd Couple of comedy. Jonny is coy, cajoling Joe; Joe is prone to manic panic; they're both exuberant. But it's not enough to carry off their show. A cop and assassin scene is funny, and there's a bout of true slapstick: Jonny practises his slapping technique on Joe; Joe responds with even more fervour; they both leave the stage with pink cheeks. Sketches seem random, and it's difficult to see if their being unfinished is contrived, or if the performers have forgotten what comes next. Too many fall flat - suggesting that perhaps they aren't contrived. There are some innovative ideas that should be short, but they are drawn-out and lose their humour. Jonny Sweet and Joe Thomas both come across as likeable, and they deliver a manic sketch show which has some real highlights - but unfortunately, just as many low ones. Although there's obvious talent, the show feels more student than professional.

Cast Credits: (alpha order): Jonny Sweet. Joe Thomas.

Company Credits: Writers - Jonny Sweet & Joe Thomas. Director - uncredited. Technical Operator - uncredited. Producer - uncredited. Company - Jonny and Joe Show. Website - www.myspace.com/jonnyandjoe.

END

(c) Lea Harris 2008

reviewed Thursday 7 Aug 08 / Pleasance Dome

Fringe Report (c) Fringe Report 2002-2012

www.fringereport.com