Recommending comedy at Adelaide Fringe is a tough gig.
The festival boasts an abundance of shows laden with five-star ratings, so how do you distinguish the 'delightful' from the 'dull'? 'Abandoman's Rob Broderick has an uncanny ability to make the same distinction with his audience. And after experiencing 'Abandoman's genius for the second consecutive year, this comedy can wholeheartedly be dubbed 'delightful'.
Rob is again supported by co-pilot Sam Wilson, who provides the music along with some smooth preliminary vocals to accompany Rob's robust improvised hip-hop. It's only a matter of moments before Rob is screening his audience searching for his first unsuspecting victim. Fortunately for Rob, his immense musical talent has again inspired a near sold-out show or in his case, a full-house of innocent lyrical subjects. Tonight, Rob gathers a cross-section of candidates pursuing the perfect punchline. The show unfolds with a fierce momentum as Rob exudes unforeseen energy and enthusiasm.
As Rob launches questions into the crowd, the ensuing misinterpretation forms the basis for rushed conclusions with muffled explanations. The 'grave-fisher' is just the start before Jacinta's story of adversity shapes the show's 'hit single'. Jacinta's exuberance and subsequent angst – when asked a follow-up question – adds to the drama, and her performance is a hit.
Abandoman's reliance on audience participation shapes a performance that is entirely unique with each show drawing a distinct structure and subject matter. Although Rob has the ability to consistently entertain the same audience, every night will see fresh material roll into 'The Factory'. And as the remarkable Abandoman works his audience, Rob's zealous "roars" will evolve into an impassioned audience commotion. Sit back, wait for the questions, and listen to your answers amplify into a captivating piece of improvised hip-hop.
'Abandoman: Life & Rhymes' performs Adelaide Fringe Festival until 13 March.
