Scout Boxall has been taking the local comedy scene by storm these past few (non-COVID) years – and it’s easy to see why in 'Buck Wild', their new genre-defying hour of comedic ridiculousness.
Scout strides across the stage with unbridled confidence, clarity and determination in their delivery, every single joke, song, diss track and infographic (yep, comedy has gotten high tech) is timed to perfection. Directed by absolute legend Michelle Brasier, her mark on the show is clear; this is a tight and sophisticated hour which comes full circle – multiple times!
'Buck Wild' is the kind of show that starts with a ‘can I get a woo if you’re on a mental health care plan’ (a question which a surprising number of Melbourne International Comedy Festival shows are asking this year) but the enthusiastic cheer from the crowd confirms that we mostly know what we’re here for – it’s a show about mental health, but we’re all on board for a wild ride.
Despite the heavy material lurking within its subtext, Scout delivers a show that is very silly at times – in the absolute best way, before quickly darting into frank and authentic realities from their own journey with mental health. A true skill shining through, Scout manages to help the audience feel safe and secure at all points in the show, even as the content heads to some of the darkest yet frank and true parts of our mental health realities. Scout is a talented storyteller too, when the laughs don’t come thick and fast it’s because you’re truly engrossed in the tale they are weaving – which, throughout the show, is well supported by sound and lighting to set a believable scene.
This is the kind of show where you just don’t know what you’re going to get – and nor should you, because to provide any insight to the comedic content might ruin a punchline – so I guess you’ll need to head along to find out who Scout performs a diss track about, what Aussie childhood favourite they hilariously rate out of 10(ish) and the subject of their bizarre and deep obsessions.
This is a fully fleshed out show that knows exactly what it is and what it needs to be at every moment – there are no unnecessary tangents, everything is in its place to expertly round out the tale you are there to be told. Scout is just so effortlessly relaxed while hitting every note (sometimes literally) with sheer perfection.
Dark, murky and yet wonderfully funny, 'Buck Wild' is worth adding to your show list this year.
