Jeff

I feel as though I've been shortchanged slightly.  This show had absolutley no structure and the Boosh team - who have earned a reputation for surreal and original comedy - seemed content to simply repeat jokes and songs from the show without putting any thought into any kind of... [more]

Event Date: November 28, 2008
Event Venue: Glasgow SECC

I feel as though I've been shortchanged slightly.  This show had absolutley no structure and the Boosh team - who have earned a reputation for surreal and original comedy - seemed content to simply repeat jokes and songs from the show without putting any thought into any kind of storyline or new material.

Saying that, the crowd seemed to enjoy this, hollering at the very mention of old characters.  The first half of the show was basically a roll call of these characters who, in turn, repeated their catchphrases from the show before exiting.  The audience lapped this up, awaiting an appearance of their favourite personality whilst feeling obliged to shout of their affections for the cast.

The second half of the show started with some promise.  Howard introduced a play about the future of the planet and the show looked as though it had gained some much-needed structure.  This material also seeemed to be entirely new and was - at times- entertaining and funny.  However, this did not last.

With a full backing band in tow, Howard and Vince then proceeded to perform some of the songs from the show, like a greatest hits tour.  Don't get me wrong, I adore the songs of the show.  In some kind of context though.  When an episode breaks into a humorous song involving the various characters, it adds something to the show that other shows seem to lack.  There is no doubting that the Boosh have a knack for writing songs that are both entertaining and hilarious.  The problem here was that the songs were reeled off without being in any way related to the show.  Again, the audience cheered for this and sang along but it is not quite what I expect from a comedy show.  It is quite obvious that the guys want to be rock stars and comics, but the two do not mix well when there is no storyline.

Some of the witty banter between the 2 stars was rather funny.  Vince's constant put-downs aimed at Howard always raise a smile and there was even some decent responses to those in the crowd who felt the need to shout 'I love you' every 2 minutes.  But overall, the show was vastly disappointing.  Any hardcore fans would love it, as all of the favourites are regurgitated for the sake of the live performance.  However, this is what I feel let the show down.  Having bought the tickets over a year ago, surely the guys have had the time to write some new material?

inevitably a DVD will emerge from this and inevitably the fans will buy it.  The merchandise stand appeared to be doing good business and, with an 'aftershow party' at £10 a ticket along with further tour dates in January, I can't help but feel that the Mighty Boosh are content with making their fortune by ripping off their loyal fans, without bothering to prepare anything new for them.  The loyal fans appear to enjoy it though so if you fall into this category, I'm sure you will enjoy this show.  If not, expect to be disappointed. [less]