You may have heard Showko (Showfukutei) on Australia’s Got Talent or ABC radio. Described by the Fringe guide as “Australia’s favourite Japanese comedian” – she certainly has an unfamiliar perspective on comedy in this diverse show.
An upbringing complicated by a “dual personality mother” led to her seeking solace in puppets she made herself. Now, Showko has transformed the means of her escapism into a very physical style of comedy. Her show certainly captured some of the features of Japanese culture that can seem so alien to Western audiences.
The show combines stand-up with Showko’s particular talent for ventriloquism and manic puppetry to share aspects of her life and Japanese society. Her act incorporates audience participation, and some recorded video.
She is also a qualified exponent of the Japanese traditional comedy form of Rokugo. She gave us an educational summary of the key elements of a Rokugo work, and showed how it is put into practice with a modern ghost story.
Despite its name, Absolutely Normal is certainly not a normal show. It will have particular appeal to lovers of physical comedy and Japanophiles.
Absolutely Normal
Lithuanian Club, 44 Errol Street, North Melbourne
Performance: Sunday 24 September 2017 – 5.30pm
Season continues to 30 September 2017
Information and Bookings: www.melbournefringe.com.au
Image: Showko Showfukutei
Review: Jason Whyte