Sam King presents TA DA: The Ramblings of a Magician

Sam King presents TA DA: The Ramblings of a Magician

Sam King presents TA DA Rating

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Great magic does not have to be big and extravagant to entertain, and Sam King proves this in his award-winning show, “Sam King Presents TA DA: The Ramblings of a Magician”.

Perfectly located at Melbourne’s quirky and iconic Butterfly Club, the friendly staff immediately welcomes you, and Sam himself personally greets each guest in the intimate theatre space.

From start to finish, Sam brings warmth and connection to the audience, putting the entire room at ease. Sam brings a calm confidence to the stage, keeping the audience completely engaged throughout the entire show.

Although a magic show at its core, the sheer talent of Sam’s stand-up comedy routine bits cannot be overlooked. Simple and effective magic tricks and illusions are cleverly connected to his ingeniously crafted comedic narratives.

At times reminiscent of the comedy stylings of Noel Fielding and Julian Barratt (of ‘The Mighty Boosh’ fame), Sam has created a magic show that masterfully intertwines his passion for magic with his quick wit and brilliant talent in comedy.

With an intimate audience, it wasn’t long before Sam had the entire room entranced and taken on an unexpected and utterly entertaining narrative journey. We were introduced to unforgettable characters, including Gary, the bitter violin case, Thumper the rabbit who had met an unfortunate and untimely end, and a strangely hilarious unfinished wooden ventriloquist puppet.

There is nothing better in the world of entertainment than watching a creative artist do what they love on stage. From start to finish, it was clear that Sam not only loves what he does but is also extremely talented.

Sam’s passion for magic and comedy fed directly into the audience. Laughter abounded in those brilliantly placed comedic moments, and the audience was openly amazed by the magic and illusions that were thoughtfully paced throughout the show.

Although some people cringe at the thought of being involved in audience participation, Sam masterfully involved a large proportion of audience members, finding that lovely ‘sweet spot’ where people feel comfortable enough to want to actively engage and be a part of the show.

This was quite simply one of those feel-good shows that give the audience exactly what we all need more of these days: a really good belly laugh and an escape from the humdrum of daily life.

‘TA DA’ is on until the 6th of July at the Butterfly Club.

Sam’s next show, ‘Tricks & Stuff,’ his award-winning close-up magic experience, runs from July 9 to 13 at 483 Swanston Street.

This review also appears on It’s On The House. Check out more reviews at Whats The Show to see what else is on in your town.

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The Last Word

The Last Word

The Last Word Rating

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3

With an eye-catching poster featuring an image of the star throwing a bunch of SCRABBLE tiles off the board into the air, one could be forgiven, walking into the Butterfly Club, on a cold Melbourne night, that the show, like the poster, may just be a bunch of ideas and various tiles haphazardly thrown together in the hopes a decent score is found. All doubt was removed at the second “The Last Word” star and creator slinked onto the stage.

It’s not often a performer that you are not familiar with, takes a stage, and with literally just a raise of their eyebrow has you giggling and instantly at ease, this is however the feat that Imogen Whittaker managed in her sold-out Monday night performance.

With nothing but a microphone and a piano, along with a whole bunch of therapy behind her (though, as Imogen tells us, she was dumped by her therapist- ouch!), she launches into song and starts the show. Within just a few bars, you know you are in the hands of an up-and-coming pro, instantly the clever, humorous wording has you thinking you are in the hands of a star like Tim Minchin. The music and lyrics already feel like they belong in a smash hit like Matilda (we won’t talk about Ground Hog Day), and the audience takes an audible sigh of relief knowing that the hard slog to get out on a wet Monday will well and truly be worth it.

Through the next 50 minutes or so, Imogen Whittaker draws you in with her charm, honesty, and a little self-deprecation. Managing to tell stories that are uniquely her own, though with wording and feelings that like today’s Astrology Star Sign forecast, the audience could easily interpret to be current and applicable to themselves.

A particular favorite was – Last First Date
“I think I’m going to get RSI
From how many times
I swipe left and right
And put on my nice shoes and dress
Just to be in evidently unimpressed”

A hilarious ode to the pitfalls of dating and kind of a Groundhog Day (not the Minchin one- no, this one wasn’t tedious) of first date after first date after first date and how they all start to feel the same, the guys all sadly similarly bland and not right and how Imogen wishes that she could find the one and have her “Last First date”. Knowing laughter from the audience and friends nudging each other in agreeance throughout.

The Last Word

Other stories of the wacky world of dating are put into song- like the one about the guy she dated for some time, to then find out the reason he was emotionally unavailable was that he was married and bumped into him and his wife at a country bakery where he introduced her as “a family friend”. Awkward. But hey, this ‘ACE’ of a guy brought her a piano- so I guess he is ok?

Another about a failed ‘showmance’ in what we are repeatedly and cheekily told was “the worst production of FAME ever staged” that leaves Imogen wondering if she was in love with the actor or the character. Then there is “Drunk Call”, awaiting an ex who has moved on, but she “Leaves my phone on even though I know you are out, in case I’m the one you‘re still thinking about”.

With brilliant lyrics and music that have you reminded of Missy Higgins, Musicals like Once and Matilda, and an instantly likable personality that draws you in, this was a joyous night at the theatre held by a performer who knows her talent and leans into it with grace and confidence. Despite some sound issues, from the microphone not sounding on for the first number to then barely being able to hear the wonderful piano playing for a few numbers, this is a highly recommended show.

“The Last Word” like the show’s promo poster, is a collection of letters and words of Imogen Whittaker’s experiences. She played a brilliant game and clearly won with the tiles of life that have been dealt her way.

I can’t help but feel that she still holds her ‘Q’ and ‘Z’ close to her chest. But I tell you, when she does decide to put them on the table, not only will she win again, she will score big and it will be one of the most exciting games. This is not Imogen’s last word, and I eagerly await her next.

This review also appears on It’s On The House. Check out more reviews at Whats The Show to see what else is on in your town.

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Mystery Radio Theatre

Mystery Radio Theatre

Mystery Radio Theatre Rating

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3

If you need a night of laughter, intrigue, and a touch of whimsy, the Mystery Radio Theatre at The Butterfly Club in Melbourne is your perfect destination. This unique theatre experience is a triple threat, blending musical comedy, improv, and sketch shows into one captivating performance that will leave you wanting more.

From the moment you step into The Butterfly Club’s cozy confines, you’re transported to a world of mystery and mirth. The atmosphere is electric, and the anticipation is palpable as you settle in for an evening of entertainment.

This month’s original play, “Murder Me Again, My Darling,” delivers a punchy blend of gritty comedy-noir and slapstick humour. Led by the soft-boiled detective Jake Steele, the audience is thrust into a web of intrigue involving beautiful identical twins, crime bosses, corrupt politicians, and a gumshoe who still lives with his parents. It’s a hilarious homage to film noir, complete with unexpected twists and turns that keep you guessing until the end.

What truly sets Mystery Radio Theatre apart is its ensemble cast of talented actors who breathe life into each character. Their mastery of minimal rehearsal allows for a fresh, spontaneous performance that feels like improv. Quippy lines and charming ad-libs only add to the infectious energy of the show, creating moments that are as endearing as they are hilarious.

But it’s not just the performances that shine—The Butterfly Club is a star. Nestled in a classic Melbourne laneway, this quirky venue oozes charm and character. As you descend into the intimate performance space, you’re embraced by the crowd’s warmth and the madcap antics unfolding on stage. With no bad seat in the house, you’re treated to up-close views of every facial expression and comedic flourish, making you feel like a part of the show.

The attention to detail extends to the sound design, with cleverly timed sound effects that enhance the show’s overall ambience. From the crackle of a vintage radio to the footsteps of a gumshoe on the trail, every auditory cue adds to the immersive experience.

And the excitement doesn’t end with one show—each month brings a new live radio play with its unique storyline and cast of characters. From English country estates to Agatha Christie-inspired murder mysteries, there’s always something fresh and exciting. Live ad reads, musical guests, and interactive elements keep audiences engaged from start to finish, ensuring that no two performances are the same, and you’re always in for a delightful surprise.

With a stellar lineup of actors, a charming venue, and a rotating roster of original comedy murder mysteries, the Mystery Radio Theatre at The Butterfly Club is a must-see for theatre lovers and comedy enthusiasts alike. So, grab a cocktail, settle in, and prepare for an evening of laughter, suspense, and fun. Can you spot the killer? There’s only one way to find out.

Showing monthly from June to September this year, grab your seat now; the venue is small and will most likely sell out.

This review also appears on It’s On The House. Check out more reviews at Whats The Show to see what else is on in your town.

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Murder Village: An Improvised Whodunnit

Murder Village: An Improvised Whodunnit

Enter a world of mystery and intrigue where the classic tales of Agatha Christie come to life in unexpected ways. This thrilling new show is back by popular demand and promises to keep you on the edge of your seat with all new improvised tales of murder and mayhem in response to audience cues.

Each performance is a unique puzzle crafted live before your eyes. It’s up to you to piece together the clues and guess the murderer before the amateur sleuth does. With an ever-changing storyline and an unpredictable cast of characters, this show will keep you guessing until the end.

So, do you want to visit the quaint little post-war English town called Murder Village? It’s open to you and 75 other tourists for an hour every night except Mondays for the next four weeks until April 21 for the duration of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival. Will someone die? Will they have been… um… murdered? With a candlestick or a rope? Will they have been at the centre of an intriguing conflict involving several suspects who all have a motive? Will the detective be assisted by an amateur sleuth who solves the mystery despite the red herring?

I would say probably not a candlestick or a rope (sorry, Cluedo fans) because you and the 75 other tourists will actually get to suggest the weapon in question, and I’m sure you are all much more imaginative than that. Take your phone because if you scan the QR code provided, you can also virtually vote on who the victim and the murderer will be (you have a choice of four) and can suggest the nature of the village event (is it always a fundraiser?) preceding the murder, as well as the clue that the case rests upon.

So, let me tell you a bit about my excursion to the village on opening night. As I climbed the many stairs and entered deeper and higher into the iconic venue, which is the Butterfly Club, for the first time, I found myself waiting alongside the other tourists in a dimly lit narrow lounge filled with knick-knacks, portraits, small flickering TV, mirror – the quirky otherness was the perfect transition from reality to the escapism that is Murder Village. The narrow theatre worked perfectly, with tiers that ensured there were no bad views.

Tonight’s host was Miss Artemis Martin (Louise Fitzhardinge), our shrewd whodunnit novelist (Agatha?) and our MC/narrator/unimaginative police officer was Detective Inspector Owen Gullet (David Massingham). We were introduced to Lady Clarissa Spalding (Candice D’Arcy), an excessively wealthy widow and best friend of Marion Kind (Amanda Buckley), a boisterous wartime entertainer.

Eddy (not Teddy) Brewster (Rik Brown), an Earl of Wooster, has bought the rights to Marion’s songs so that only he will profit whenever she performs, leaving her destitute. His respectable butler, Eames Chair (Rhys Auteri), has tarred feathered himself and picked up broken glass with his bare hands to serve his master. Eddy dies on a serving platter with a sharp edge that accidentally, on purpose, severs his carotid in a hilarious death scene. True to the genre, all three suspects are hiding something, but Artemis’s intellect uncovers Lady Clarissa as the murderer, and we are privy to her confession enacted as a flashback.

The population of Murder Village was 84, but now that Eddy is dead and Lady Clarissa is put away, there are now 82 possible people left to entertain you when you visit. So, the plot will be completely different based on your input. If you are like me, you will be so carried away by the fun energy of the performances you’ll have to remind yourself that the actors didn’t know the details of the plot beforehand – it all just unfolds before them, as it does for us. Musician Terrence Mudwater Junior (Jaron Why) improvised the background music on the keyboard (piano/strings sound). This underscored the action so well without drawing undue attention to itself that I had to remind myself someone was playing.

So, enjoy your excursion to Murder Village! I know I did.

This review also appears on It’s On The House. Check out more reviews at Whats The Show to see what else is on in your town.

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