Pepito is a beautiful French idiot who will steal your heart. The charming alter ego of Norwegian comedian Viggo Venn (from MICF smash hit duo Zach & Viggo Thunderflop) is back at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival this year with his solo show Pepito.
This year in his Australian solo debut, Viggo proves himself as an excellent entertainer and strong soloist, even without his comical sidekick Zach Zucker. With a wealth of experience and awards under his belt, and as a graduate of prestigious French clown school Ecole Philippe Gaulier, Viggo Venn is known for his quirky Norwegian style, his honesty and joy onstage winning over audiences quicker than you can say “cucumber”.
Pepito is a well developed, heart-warming look into the life of a beautiful character who is really just here to make friends. It has all the things we love about fringe shows – expect an intimate crowd, delightfully low budget tech, quality audience banter (with the fourth wall completely obliterated), quick wit and a slightly confusing storyline.
In fact, the show is basically designed to be completely derailed by the audience. His crowd interaction is hilarious and innocently flirtatious, as Pepito is ready and waiting to take on anything the audience throws at him, and we love him for it.
It’s the kind of show that gives you the warm and fuzzies, it makes you feel like you are seeing the real deal, not some glittery façade. It is the pure skill and playfulness of the character that really draws us in, the audience feels connected to the show and to each other. Featuring brilliant character work, skilful physical comedy, an adorable fascination with cucumbers, and even a little bit of magic, this show is weird and wonderful and everybody is on board.
If you liked Thunderflop you will love Pepito. The show is great for MICF fringe dwellers, families, and lovers looking for a laugh.
Viggo Venn – Pepito
Acacia Room – Victoria Hotel, 215 Little Collins Street, Melbourne
Performance: Friday 30 March 2018
Season: 29 March – 8 April 2018 (closed)
Information: www.zachandviggo.com
Image: Viggo Venn (supplied)
Review: Ciara Thorburn