The Future
  • By Pete Shaw
  • |
  • 12th Aug 2006
  • |
  • ★★★★★

Jonny Sweet and Joe Thomas are breaking new comedy turf over at The Underbelly, with their satirical view of the future, called simply The Future.

This is a new kind of comedy where the destination isn't nearly as important as the journey. Set against a vaguely corporate background, Jonny and Joe present a series of absurd scenes which allow their complex characters to explore increasingly bizarre situations.

The duo share a rare symbiosis, weaving their dialogue between each other with slick, polished charm. There's a deliberate nervous fallibility in their delivery, somewhat akin to Ricky Gervais, but the material is much fresher.

Although they flip characters throughout, Jonny seems strongest playing the patsy - his keen facial contortions well suited to the role. Joe's good looks and natural charisma seem ideal for the straight-man in the act, although this is not to belittle his clear comedic talent. Both these lads know the importance of timing.

I look forward to seeing this pair again. Surely offers from BBC 3 won't be far off?

Reviews by Pete Shaw

The Stage Door Theatre

Marry Me a Little

★★★★★
Apollo Victoria Theatre

Wicked

★★★★
Savoy Theatre

Sunset Boulevard

★★
Greenwich Theatre

The Queen of Hearts

★★★★★

Good Grief

★★★★

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The Blurb

A satire-soaked vision of tomorrow that makes an unexpected amount of sense today.

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