Showko is Show good!!!
Reviewed at the National Wine Centre on 15 March 2019
Presented by Janet A McLeod
Showko is more than just Absolutely Normal, she is absolutely hilarious and friggin’ fantastic!
Who is this miniaturised Japanese marvel? She is a puppeteer, a stand-up (and sit down) comedian, ventriloquist, and Rakugo (Japanese storytelling comedy) expert who lives in Melbourne but has thankfully visited Adelaide for this year’s Fringe.
Showko has mastered all her listed talents perfectly. Her show differs quite markedly from any other comedy on offer at this year’s Fringe. She clears up any confusions we Westerners may have between distinguishing the Japanese people from Chinese; we learn about Japanese culture from a very strange and funny perspective (their toilets!); find out about her obsessions (Chris Hemsworth and Godzilla feature quite heavily – occasionally at the same time); and we meet some of her delightful puppet friends such as Ninja Ken and Hello Kitty – and even some human ‘puppets’ make an appearance.
This is one very talented lady, especially when it comes to her ventriloquism. She changes voices, sings and says things in one breath all with skill and ease – think a female Japanese David Strassman.
With so much going on in this nearly hour show (make it longer! make it longer!), Showko has wisely obtained a director for her seemingly manic performance: none other than a maniacal puppeteer himself, Heath McIvor (the man, literally, behind Randy).
There are not that many chances left to see this wonderfully funny Japanese cherry blossom – so try to rush along to what would have to be the best Fringe venue this year, the National Wine Centre and say Chris Hemsworth sent you.
Reviewed by Brian Godfrey
Twitter: @briangods
Venue: Vines Room at the National Wine Centre
Season: Until 17 March 2019
Duration: 55 mins
Tickets: $22 – $25
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