As his simple but extremely catchy theme tune states at the outset of
Dunning repeatedly proves his abilities as a performer throughout the show.
Dunning kicks off proceedings in full drag with a sultry singer, the kind of fading star who’d haunt the lounge bar of a low rent cruise ship. With music and more than a touch of madness it sets the scene for a frenetic hour of highly camp, fast-paced fun.
There are numerous highpoints as Dunning swaps through wigs and characters in fairly short order, including a terrific short and surreal interlude from a Boots worker who is only partially useful in obtaining in-store discounts. A sequence which sees the comedian assume the position of a exuberant dancing lion of the Disney persuasion while members of the audience form an awkward backing cast is also tremendously entertaining.
However, despite many high quality and surprising characters, the quality across the show is not uniform and scattered amongst the many interesting personalities are a handful which do not work as well. It’s not that these characters don’t show promise, it’s just they don’t seem as well thought out as others; good ideas in need of more development.
These shortcomings are minor though and Dunning repeatedly proves his abilities as a performer throughout the show, displaying great comic timing, inventiveness and an ear for a funny song. The comic has developed a strong cast of characters and if a few of them were further rounded out he would have a very special show on his hands.
