After my interview with Liam Ryan the other day, I was pretty excited about heading to the Big HOO HAA for the Opening on Friday. Well I can happily say that I wasn’t disappointed. This really was a cracking night of flat out improvised comedy. Given that all of the players have done this before in Perth, you could see how well they worked together by backing each other and jumping in to lend a hand to keep a scene rolling.
There’s no point going into the sketches that were played out and the people involved as this is going to change weekly. The group has a pre-determined set of theatre sports they are going to play, the basis then comes from the audience with suggestions. You’re asked for words and objects which sets the scene, the Hearts & Bones can then take these where they want. From a dating video who’s perfect match is a strident Prime Minister that enjoys Taxidermy to Vegemite the Musical and Paul the Octopus getting it on with Arnold Schwarzenegger!
Libby Klysz, as the referee, worked well but did let some of the scenes drag on a bit. It’s one of those things that this type of comedy needs to keep a fast pace. Skits that are going wrong need to be killed quickly and move to the next one or you can lose the momentum (and the crowd) very easily.
I recommend the Big HOO HAA for a quality Friday laugh. It’s cheaper than a movie and certainly funnier than a Hollywood Comedy. The question remains if it will stand the test of time. Melbournians are a different breed to the Perth crowd where it’s run for 8 years and it could have a shelf life. Make up your own mind though and head along to the Portland Hotel on a Friday.
The Big Hoo Haa happens every Friday at The Portland Hotel (cnr. Lt Collins & Russell Sts, Melbourne). The show starts at 8pm & entry is $14 full [$12 Concession]. Advance bookings can be made through trybooking.com