I had no expectations when I boarded Elbowskin’s Comedy Gondola. But soon I was swept away with Dave and Ernie down the Yarra. This year they are tucked away downstairs in a small intimate room in the Victoria Hotel. These two boys are heading in the right direction to become the next big thing in musical comedy.
On board the Gondola you are invited to enjoy songs, skits, creative dance moves and pre recorded footage. This has proved to me without a doubt that the Elbowskin boys are more than a one skill act. Which was honestly what I expected. This is the reason why the hour went so quickly. The reoccurring story lines in the video footage helps keep the show together and stops it becoming random and disjointed.
I have never been comfortable with the audience participation aspect of comedy. But this time it was the most unique and interesting form I had seen. Filming the audience looking bored to be played at the next nights show. I admire this, as it was easy for everybody to do. No awkward stand out roles to be played by anyone. The boys also gave the audience time to think about a superhero they could be. Then giving us the opportunity to respond, if we wished, later in the show. This takes the pressure off the audience and helped us open up.
Dave and Ernie have definitely struck a chord with me, not just musically. Their lighthearted wit and irrepressible charm is unmatchable to anything I have seen yet in this comedy festival. These boys are well worth parting with your hard earned cash for.