PROOF THAT SLAPSTICK IS ALIVE AND KICKING

How wonderful that the five extraordinary musicians of  Släpstick are making an ode to an almost forgotten art form: slapstick. And they do it magnificently. They don’t brush their admiration for their role models under the carpet: Laurel & Hardy, the musical madness of Spike Jones and his orchestra, and the acts of the great Mini & Maxi. Director Stanley Burleson, who earned his stripes in musicals, has constructed a flowing whole with something new to see in literally every moment on stage as well as a host of recurring elements.

The setting of the show ‘Släpstick’  reminds you of a tasteful, smoky nightclub from the twenties. This production exploits strong physical humour and includes two silent films – one starring the fantastic Brigitte ‘Kahndorf’ as the diva who has lost her dog – accompanied with live music by the performers. The acts follow one another in rapid tempo, all effectively based around the music.

Take for example the five gentlemen in dapper white jackets with black piping and straw hats. They walk on and take their places, one counts off, and they launch into contemporary pop hits – but a capella and in German. Recognisable, hilarious and disconcerting. ‘Hello’ by Lionel Richie becomes ‘Hallo, sucht Du veilleicht nach mir’. Mayhem breaks loose when we hear Sonneveld’s ‘Zo heerlijk rustig’ (‘So nice and quiet’), but whatever happens, the show goes on. Phenomenal.

Another fine moment is a romantic ode by two of the performers, taking it in turns to woo a lady in the first row. The accompanists must swap faster and faster between a mandolin and guitar, stuck to each other back to back. This can only happen with Släpstick. It appears that they have found their definitive form in their sixth production. Proof that slapstick is still alive and kicking was found at the fully packed premiere, where the many children shrieked with glee at every seemingly simple blunder: ladder against head, a ridiculously large boxing glove or a collapsing chair.

The performers have sophisticatedly forged all elements together, and continue to amaze with every fresh finding. Inspired by a regal tradition, with a modern interpretation. A richly filled sweet shop that you can’t get enough of – ‘Släpstick’ is guaranteed to keep you on the edge of your seat. A deep bow for the craftsmanship of Släpstick.