Comic Perspectives,
Pegasus Theatre, 20th & 21st September 2002

The concept of a new comedy show is one which always contains a slight element of fear, not least for the author. Yet while 'Comic Perspectives' may not have quite hit all its marks, it is nevertheless a very promising first outing for the sketches of writer Adam Potterton, and well worth seeing.

The company of Comic Perspectives is a varyingly, though competently, talented bunch, the star of which is undoubtedly Potterton himself. A master of accents, he portrays a number of characters, perhaps the most memorable of which is the American Professor who has invented an all new diet ("and God knows we've tried a few, ladies"), consisting entirely of paper - the appallingly punned 'Waist Management'. As Potterton informs us, his 'F. K. N. G. Ma. D Philosophy' is a surefire way to lose weight fast. "Eating paper won't just make you a better person," he adds, "it will make you a /paper/ person." Equally joyous is his (female) Irish Travel Agent, (although the shoes need to go), and while no-one is ever likely to understand, the phrase 'Goblins have invaded Portugal' will henceforth be a much-used part of my life. Isobel McCall, as the token female, showed herself to be a talented and versatile performer, adding needed variety to the otherwise male ensemble. Alex Nicholls was pleasing to watch, but slightly less typecast roles would have let him display his talents more fully. Adrian Porter and Geoff Baker completed the group, the latter showing that slow arm movement can be far funnier than you'd expect.

'Comic Perspectives' is in need of some refinement - but this much is to be expected from a fledgling group. Some of the sketches were too long and, conversely, some promising ones were cut short in favour of the running gag of 'Celtic Hordes', which almost, but never quite, clicked enough to work. Over-long set changes were hardly justified, given the minimalistic set, although the selection of music played to cover these kept the audience happy, as did the rather sexy glitterball.

If you like men with beards, you won't like this show (although you will like the programme). However, if you've always had a hunger to be in a 'horde', you won't be disappointed, - 'Comic Perspectives' *is* the way ahead. Promised for 2003 is 'Comic Perspectives II: A New Pope'. Wear your best frock. He will.

Rebecca Smith.