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Pros: It’s fun and makes time go fast.
Cons: The storyline can be enriched with more comedic material.
Summary
Rating
Good
A pair of lively stiffs try to join the dots of how they ended up at the morgue
The other man (William Batty) also finds a tag around his big toe, with the name “Dave Stuart” written on it. He’s confused about why he’s there and seems quite uncomfortable.
Starting to unravel the mystery surrounding them, Dave and Vince soon realise that they’re both dead and currently guests of the local morgue. Unable to remember anything about their previous lives, they’re compelled to work out their true identities and, most importantly, their cause of death.
A transistor radio and a newspaper come to their rescue, offering some leads about a news report that recently hit the headlines. Trying to join the dots, this pair of very lively stiffs generate all sorts of speculations about their families and their past social status.
Produced in association with The Civic, Barnsley, Stiffs is the stage debut of up-and-coming duo Marcus and Wilhelm, who combine character comedy with short sketches, to create a delectable absurdist piece. Inspired by the works of Beckett and Stoppard, this two-hander explores the ideas of death and what elements contribute to make us who we are.
Despite the predictable direction of some slapstick gags, the time flies by and the audience are visibly enjoying themselves. The original storyline and the undiscussed talent of both performers suggest that there’s plenty of room for development and great potential for Marcus and Wilhelm to polish their comedic material.
Written, Directed and Performed by: William Batty and Mark Olszewski
Produced by: Marcus and Wilhelm Productions in association with The Civic, Barnsley
Booking Information: This show has now completed its run
