The Boy with Tape on his Face, Duchess, WC2

Interactive physical comedy with expressive and energetic Sam Wills who entertains by 'saying nothing at all'
21 May 2013

In seven years Sam Wills, alias The Boy with Tape on his Face, has moved a few hundred metres, from Covent Garden street entertainer to West End theatre. Could the stripey-shirted silent comedian whose visual trickery makes mime cool satisfy his new ticket-buying fans? Shout it out loud, of course he can.

This inventive rebooting of physical comedy also depends on the numerous participants plucked from the stalls, but part of Wills’ skills is picking the right people. The shyest wallflowers were transformed into troupers when asked to impersonate bulls, film characters and in one elaborate skit, play golf. In a magical segment Wills got four amateurs to perform a remarkable balancing act to the song Lean On Me.

The charming star, however, does not take a back seat. Wills is constantly involved, never merely facilitating. His expressive eyes and encouraging or dismayed gestures speak volumes.

At 75 non-stop minutes this show does not outstay its welcome and is clean enough for children. Occasionally one can see gags coming but in a comedy world dominated by loudmouthed stand-ups Wills makes a big noise by saying nothing at all.

Until January 5, 0844 412 4659, nimaxtheatres.com

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