one4review | On 17, Aug 2024

Ever wanted to go on a blind date? Or witness an awkwardly funny tete-a-tete between two people who have just met for the first time? It’s finally your time to eavesdrop into a real life blind date on stage, accompanied by its own chorus comprising an impressive and blindingly funny improvised comedy team.
While I waited for the blind dates to arrive I was handed a heart shaped slip of paper and asked to jot a question down. Later, the awkward romantic couple would use these to keep the conversation flowing.
The dates were blindfolded and we witnessed the first time they clapped eyes on each other. Imagine if they knew each other, or worse they were exes! This time it was evident they had never seen each other before and so the actual first date began.
They seemed to be doing well, despite chatting in front of a live audience. They covered the usual predictable date patter; hobbies, what one does for a living etc. Between them, there were some clumsy but obviously funny moments for us voyeurs. These two, though, shared a similar hobby and fascination with pole dancing. Were there sparks actually flying here? To be honest, I think there was some more work to be done.
The hilarious improv team steps in to bring together some on the spot comedy. The company is made up of Chris McNally, Ellen Stewart, John McGlone, Heather McGregor, Ellen McCulloch, Shari Levine and Stephen Sharp (AKA Sharpy). They struck a perfect balance, creatively pulling themes from this rendezvous and blending with their own imaginations. They showed a great aptitude for taking us on some leftfield journeys, earning laughs along the way.
Remember the heart shaped questions for the audience? Well, we learnt how many toddlers one could take down and that they would not move across the country for one another. I really like this almost reality TV style genre plus the added abstract of an excellent improv team. I later learnt that it was Ellen McCulloch’s debut, whom I felt was a great improv performer! Would I go again? For sure, I’ll be heading over to Glasgow to watch a future first date – get this on the telly I say!

*****
Reviewed by Jen
Whistlebinkies – Main Room (venue 158)– PBH’s Free Fringe 2024

Next chance to see Looking for Laughs SAT 31ST AUGUST 2024
COMEDY LOUNGE – VAN WINKLE WEST END, GLASGOW 7pm (Doors 6.45pm)