Comedy

Words: Rosemary MacDonald
Image: Camden Studio

5 Stars

In this character comedy, Jonathan Oldfield uses the multiple meanings of Exquisite Corpse beautifully. By using the premise of the game to create weird and wonderful characters, he plays with the meaning of corpse as (1) a body or (2) spoiling a performance by laughing.

The audience are greeted by Oldfield while entering and some are asked to draw a head, torso or legs which he then uses to create characters throughout the show alongside the material he has already created. The set immediately grabs the attention and interest of the audience, showcasing previous audience members’ drawings. This start is an excellent way of introducing the audience to the interactive element of the show. Even though Oldfield keeps the audience in suspense with much of the material and delivery, he manages to create a very safe atmosphere for audience interaction and participation. 

This show is very engaging and is an excellent piece of character work. Oldfield masterfully goes between the characters and has the audience gripped. The audience never knows what to expect but are captured throughout just waiting to see. Oldfield even manages to keep the audience in anticipation while he takes a sip of water, perfectly timing the break. Oldfield also uses sound and lighting within the comedy. The mix of sound and lighting cues and his interactions with them often have the audience in stitches. 

While dealing with elaborate characters, Oldfield manages to make commentary on human nature and the need for attention as well as sprinkling in a good bit of satire. Despite their flaws and exaggerations, you’ll find yourself very drawn to his characters and their lives.

Overall, Oldfield makes excellent use of all tools at his disposal in this character comedy piece. Everything within the piece is well calculated and the pay off is well deserved. 

Jonathan Oldfield: Exquisite Corpse 
Below at Pleasance Courtyard
21:40
5 August – 30 August (not 17th)