Presented by Ben Vernel
Reviewed 24 February 2014
Set in a late 1950s radio broadcasting studio on the eve of new technology called ‘television’, we meet an ensemble of radio play actors. They perform episodes of serials and, in the off-air moments, discuss the longevity of their current careers, and future prospects.
Una Broben (Lauren Bok), Bert Maverick (Bert Goldsmith) and Herb Dunstone (Sam Marzden, co-writer with Goldsmith) are masterful multi-taskers of voice and Foley, presenting three radio plays and one mighty song, and inviting audience participation throughout for sound effect support.
Genuine, recreated sponsorship messages from a cigarette company and cat food makers amusingly mask the suspected actual supporter of the characters; gin (from a teacup).
Lauren Bok shone with a credible American accent as Joan Jackson, noir detective, and Sam Marzden as the excellent, noir baddie, bore more than a passing resemblance to Peter Lorre.
Other highlights included Bert Maverick’s splendid Orson Welles style narrative; Sam Marzden’s dynamic teen-idol song; the deliciously creepy Peculiar Avenue sci-fi horror a la The Twilight Zone, which revealed a unique parenting nightmare; and Lauren Bok’s Mittens in Captain Jet Propulsion’s sci-fi space adventure which left me wanting to add ‘meow’ to the end of my sentences.
Complete with extra baggy pants, wide lapels, two-tone shoes and set hair, the tight ensemble amused and delighted in equal measures with the combination of serial performances, character back stories, audience participation, and plenty of improvisation. The trio presented so competently, it was curious that they used some pre-recorded sound effects, but this did not detract from the overall success of the performance.
Radio Variety Hour is a fast paced, laugh-out-loud funny, all-ages show, with a great script, and exciting presentation, which made for a highly entertaining hour that was over too quickly.
Find out what you get when you cross cabbages and baking trays, with a door latch and kazoos.
With only a few performances remaining, it’s your last chance to see it.
Meow!
Reviewed by Gordon Forester
Venue: The Producers Bar, 235 Grenfell Street, Adelaide
Season: 16-27 February at 6.15pm
Duration: 1 hour
Tickets: $13 – $23
Bookings: Book through FringeTix online or phone 1300 621 255
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