If you see
one comedian this year…
Mark Thomas “Cuckooed”
Newcastle Northern Stage
20th February 2015.
A
comedian, with a left-wing agenda, who was responsible for 6 fabulous series of
the Mark Thomas Comedy Product and
carrying out 105 minor acts of dissent during his last tour, Mark still has
plenty to share. His Northern Stage performance was to a sell out crowd, most
of whom agreed with his views and activism.
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Photo:
Steve Ullahtorne
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The
show begins with a set of lighter amusing anecdotes covering a career which
started with a gig for 5 people plus a promoter. At least he was offered a
share of the door take – though he tried to refuse the £2.50. Mark entertained
the audience with his friendly engaging style of delivery. He is one comic who
doesn’t feel a need to work across the front row asking for names and
occupations. Rather, he recalls tales of his dissent – such as buying remote
controlled Barbie cars for his female friends and then getting them to drive
them in front of the Saudi Embassy. His shows are always a learning experience
for the crowd, for example, did you know it is illegal to imagine the end of
the monarchy? Or a Domestic Extremist is someone whose activities are monitored
by agencies such as the police? Mark is trying to get the word “Farage” defined
as the fluid at the bottom of the bin. Clearly that’s one party he has no plans
to vote for.
The
second half of the show is storytelling bordering on a one man play. He recalls
his adventures that started in 2003 taunting arms dealers and manufacturers
such as BAE systems. This includes
some relevant details that he has used on past tours but they are wrapped up
into a new context. The clever set has Mark flanked by 2 sets of filing
cabinets and a large screen to the rear. This combination enables him to cut in
clips of interviews with numerous eye witnesses to each incident which segue
nicely without slowing the pace of the presentation. The only change of pace is
induced by a couple of members of the audience which are dealt with nicely but
firmly. The story reaches its conclusion with a final pertinent take home
message.
Mark
Thomas stands out from other comics by his personal involvement in the tales he
recalls. He may not be a big fan of bloggers but there is no denying everyone
show see him at least once as it could be a life changing moment. Mark is one
of the good guys.
This
review was written by Stephen Oliver for Jowheretogo PR (www.jowheretogo.com ).
Follow Jo on twitter @jowheretogo, Stephen @panic_c_button or like Jowheretogo
on Facebook www.facebook.com/Jowheretogo
On The Web:
Website: www.markthomasinfo.co.uk/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/markthomasinfo
Tour dates: www.markthomasinfo.co.uk/section_gigs/
The original Jowheretogo Preview: Mark Thomas Preview
The original Jowheretogo Preview: Mark Thomas Preview
Creatives:
Writer
& Performer: Mark Thomas
Director:
Emma Callander
Producer:
Mike McCarthy
