THEATRE: ROBIN WILLIAMS LIVE
Review By Duncan McLeod
Where do you begin with a performance that’s trying to make up for 20 years of lost time in 90 minutes. Williams traversed everything from the recent Qantas drama and the running joke about Kangaroos as pets, to the Beijing Olympics and the fact that raccoons are just koalas in Mardi Gras make up.
He even managed to surprise himself when doing an impersonation of a Coyote as opposed to a Dingo, when he somehow made the Coyote Irish.
He spoke candidly about his recurrent alcoholism, his children, depression, his heart troubles that really floored him and made reference to stupid movie decisions (Bicentennial Man).
He name checked Bono, Mandela, W, The Clintons, Lindsay Lohan, Obama and Mel Gibson. He also traversed the perils of old age, and worked in a Viagra gag. Whilst you get the impression it was largely scripted, there were obvious elements of research and the hallmarks of ‘stand-up 101′ that Williams still uses (always keep moving and use your hands to hold the audience’s attention).
High points on the radar included his vivid description of why our genitalia is designed the way it is and a porn version of MRS. DOUBTFIRE. What’s the mark of a truly talented comedian? Managing to offend EVERYBODY!
Whilst Williams is certainly greying around the edges, his performance still packed a punch and this reviewer is certain that Williams will keep up the good fight for years.
His movie career may be in a prolonged rough patch (perhaps providing the impetus for him to travel with this show) however his talented mind and sharp tongue are in fine form.
He still sweats like crazy and swears a as much as time can allow, but the performance was a once in a lifetime event that can and will never be repeated.
THE UMBILICAL BROTHERS opened the show, with a 20 minute set that was very engaging and drew the audience focus and focused on weapons (perhaps in keeping with the title of the show). The set was a little loose and perhaps a tad long for this reviewer.
They joined Williams on the stage for a final curtain call, to revive an impersonation of ‘The Governator’ which misfired a little unfortunately but they provided a fitting opener to a great show and a very memorable evening’s entertainment.
Primate cannot rate this performance as there aren’t enough stars. A once in a lifetime event.
