Not Like Other Ghouls REVIEW 30 March 2023 ***1/2

COMEDY

By Alice Tovey

At Malthouse Theatre, The Tower until 9 April 2023

Melbourne International Comedy Festival

Reviewer: Kate Herbert

Stars: ***1/2

This review is published only on this blog. I’ll present a radio review on Arts Weekly, 3MBS, on Sat 1 April 2023. kh

Alice Tovey photo supplied

Not Like Other Ghouls by Alice Tovey is a one-woman comedy and musical cabaret that's both hilarious and thought-provoking. The premise of the show is that Tovey is hosting a dinner theatre performance with multiple celebrity guests (Hamish Blake, Wil Anderson, Oshe Ginsberg) who, for various absurd reasons, don't show up. However, Tovey manages to keep the audience entertained and engaged with her witty banter, infectious energy, and original songs about her love of horror movies.

 

Tovey's humour is edgy and unapologetic, and she fearlessly tackles topics such as the gay scene and its obsession with B grade horror movies (Scream, Freddy Krueger) the Twilight saga, teenage angst, monsters, fears, “Big Gender” and we even hear Nicole Kidman voice from beyond. 

 

Her lyrics are dense and clever, and she effortlessly weaves them amongst her humorous anecdotes and stories. Throughout the show, Tovey's personality shines through, and her charm, sass and mischievousness keep the audience entertained.

 

In addition to her humour, Tovey also shares her struggles with anxiety, and her vulnerability and confessional honesty about her own experiences add depth and resonance to the performance. Tovey's versatility as both a comedian and a classically trained singer is impressive, and she manages to create a solo show that's both entertaining and meaningful.

 

The show is also visually inventive, with clever use of projections, lighting, voice overs and rapid costume changes that add to the atmosphere.

 

Not Like Other Ghouls is a brand-new show from Tovey so it will tighten up over the season, but I’d recommend it for anyone who loves smart, insightful comedy that's both hilarious and heartfelt. Tovey will leave you laughing, singing, and maybe even reflecting on your own fears and anxieties.

 

by Kate Herbert