Blind Date
Note: This review is from 2003
This relatively new group, directed by Jordan Peele of the technology-loving Boom Chicago improv troupe, failed to generate much energy from the outset.
Essentially an improvisation show, the actors first take to the stage to give their, slightly perturbing, personal details to a videodating camera, similar to Smack The Pony's recurring jokes, but not nearly as funny.
After each of these, the troupe tried to incorporate a rehearsed sketch, perhaps to showcase their thespian training and theatrical prowess, but it did nothing to address the disjointed and nervous performance.
The cast work well together and are clearly accomplished in their field, but they felt compelled to explain, analyse and explain every gag, which felt slightly patronising and an indication of lack of confidence in their material.
As a show, it felt like a work in progress, with the cast choking back fits of laughter... a problem the audience didn't share.
For a supposedly off-the-cuff show, the audience suggestions were inconsistently treated, too, meaning much of the improvisational element vanished as the punters forgot their contributions, or got past caring.
Review date: 1 Jan 2003
Reviewed by: Steve Bennett