Everything about the Aspidistras at High Noon, from the name to the costumes, is bizarre. Leaping on the stage adorned with feathers, sunglasses and fake accents, the two-woman act promised a show like no other. Attempting to break the ice with some entertaining audience participation, there was no chance to be shy and although a little embarrassing, all inhibitions were lost as we prepared ourselves for the ridiculousness that made up the rest of the show.
Unfortunately, that is about all I can say for the rest of the performance; it was ridiculous. Their comedy sketches seemed too practised and came across slightly forced, while their mix of improvisation with prepared sketches confused their characters and their audience as their attempts to be comical landed flat. There were moments of easy laughter at their peculiar impressions of Tim Burton and Helena Bonham-Carter and the Neighbour sketch was something to look out for as these two women couldn’t help but make you smile. They played up the rivalry of friends to produce some entertaining material, but it wasn’t enough and the lack of spontaneity left the show without much originality.
Both are talented musicians and I desperately wanted to enjoy the performance more than I did. The whole thing was just a bit confused and by the end I was left wondering what the point of the show had been and who these women were actually meant to be. It was nice to see two people who didn’t take themselves too seriously, but it was a strange afternoon to say the least.
