This latest show from Norfolk cult comedy icon Karl Minns reaches another level of funny, as his alter ego She Go guides an eager audience through a ostensible review of the year.
With a tracksuit and bad blonde wig, Minns has been playing this stereotype of a Norwich estate single mum for several years, initially as part of his Nimmo Twins double act but more recently in single-hander shows.
Past outings have been funny but relied a little too heavily on the innate weirdness of local journalism, laughing at strange headlines from the local press without much added value.
But this new show is at a different level – from the opening song touring through the year’s news, to She Go’s slightly extreme money saving tips; there were tangible winces at one suggested use of gaffer tape.
This is definitely local comedy for local people, but if you really know Norwich then the inclusion of the now closed Guildhall Tesco Extra in a ‘those we have lost’ segment, and its description as an “A&E with tills” is both poetic and hilarious.
She Go’s take on Norfolk yoga positions, and her own version of the Farrow & Ball paint chart also hit the mark.
Minns is a skilled comedy writer and he brings a sharp assessment to bear on the minutiae of Norfolk life, along with a particularly rich seam of innuendo. Even if you don’t get all the local jokes, there is enough smut to keep you laughing.
The run is pretty much sold out, but if you happen to live in NR1 to 8, try and grab a ticket – it’ll feel like you’ve won the postcode lottery.
- She Go Looks Back From Behind at 2022 continues at Norwich Playhouse until January 22.