SkinnyFest 3 - The Friends of Jack Kairo

A passably-convincing presentation of the challenging one-man routine.

Article by Yasmin Ali | 14 Aug 2006
Simon Toal's self-written theatrical comedy The Friends of Jack Kairo bridges the gap between political satire and US detective comedy-drama. Toal takes the lead of eponymous hero Private Investigator Jack Kairo, whose interior monologue-style soliloquies are interspersed with spirited outbursts from auxiliary characters (that's where 'The Friends of' comes in). Transitions within the piece are a little stilted at times, but practised use of props and savvy sound production make for a passably convincing presentation of the challenging one-man routine.

The highlight of the show is undoubtedly the polemically camped-up rendition of chart hit The Female of the Species, performed as a cabaret act with enforced audience participation. Toal's accent at times betrays his Irishness - more Gangs of New York than New York gangster - though this is really a matter for the purists. An irreverent take on WMD rolled into a detective comedy, this production is commendable on the grounds of the writer's imagination and craft alone. The Friends of Jack Kairo is also a perfectly watchable comedy play, delivered with no shortage of gusto.
The Friends of Jack Kairo, Smirnoff Underbelly, until August 27, 16:35, £9.50/£8.50 (£8.50/£7.50). http://www.simontoal.com