Who: Tommy and the Weeks
Where: Pleasance Beside
When: 5.15pm until 31 August 2009
How Much: £7-£8.50
In 140 characters or less: “Tom Bell and Ed Weeks are complete opposites, but wonderful, beautiful things can happen when opposites attract.”
As songstress Paula Abdul once so rightly pointed out, “It ain’t fiction, just a natural fact. We come together, cause opposites attract”. This is certainly true of sketch duo Tommy and the Weeks, regardless of the fact that neither of them is an animated cat.
Making up in gags what they lack in numbers, Tom Bell and Ed Weeks kick off proceedings with a good old sing-song of some eighties classics, with the audience heartily joining in. This is a slick show and the boys slide in and out of sketches so naturally it’s sometimes surprising to realise you’re in a new sketch.
There are some really original ideas in here, be it a clubbing shepherd or a mathematical faun. There’s a genuine sense of fun about the show, clearly demonstrated by the fact that the pair are enjoying themselves so much on stage. It’s all too easy to get caught up in the show and find yourself truly touched by the moments of pathos. Both are excellent actors and pull off the act of talking over each other for comic effect better than it’s been done for years.
It’s hard to talk about the show without spoiling all the gags, but it’s a quotable and laugh-out-loud adventure. Ed Weeks exudes confidence, and Tom Bells oozes indie charm. Watching their love/hate relationship unfurl is a truly enjoyable experience.Whatever these boys do next, it’s great to see someone taking comedy so seriously.
Highlights include Ed Weeks solo song, Tom Bell’s worst (or best) ever date, and some really great painting. See this show: you’ll be moved, amused and leave with a smile on your face.
Festbuzz Rating:
Words: Elise Bramich
