The Mash House
Aug 10-13 (23:15)
Vetant Leges Iovis
A silly show exploring a serious topic, Big Zeus Energy blends idiocy with existential crisis. Masculinity is in peril and these fools are coming to the rescue!
Jungle music plays as three Gaulier trained clowns enter wearing blankets. The first of many of their self described ‘shit’ costumes. We are welcomed as brothers to The Edinburgh Men’s Circle. An immersive and interactive show, we have all been identified as boys needing to grow up. Christiaan Hendricksen makes a powerful patriarch with his grand stature and Andrew Turowski exudes sweetness and innocence in his role as a boy on a mission to become a man.
The three comedians self identify themselves as white, cisgendered and mostly heterosexual. The crisis around masculinity means they can’t express their emotions and have difficulty connecting with others. They are ready to do the inner work. Which involves camp dancing, a bonkers fight scene and mad props.
An archetypal journey of initiation with testosterone fueled fun reminiscent of Austin Powers. It’s very funny, delightfully charming and has a real spirit of the fringe vibe. Nominated for Best Debut show at the Leicester Comedy Festival, a lot of work has gone into this show but it is delivered in a way which seems effortless. Some of the routines could be tighter and the pace a bit quicker, but it is a joy to spend an hour immersed in the playful energy that they have conjured.
There is a strong narrative arc, carried by a light energy, which is skillfully sustained when Ollie West reveals his tortured soul in an emotional breakdown over a love lost. Building up to a fun and ridiculous ending. What does it mean to be a man? Go see this show to find out!
Samantha Pressdee
Mumble Comedy 