Creators: Will Rowland and Eddy Hare
Charismatic narrative comedy from this likeable and well accomplished funny duo.
Will Rowland and Eddy Hare’s first full show, Cowboys is a comedy triumph, full of fabulous funny songs, self-deprecating humour and story which explores the nature of friendship.
The piece starts with the Cowboys singing a catchy tune about how the wild west is the place to be, interspersed with commentary about a particular review they received about the show previously. It is a funny start and sets the scene for the hilarious night that is to come.
The premise is that Billy (Rowland) doesn’t like the idea of the railroad coming through his land so he enlists a stranger called Edmonton (Hare) to help him blow it up. On the way they become firm friends but will their bond survive the twists and turns of the plot?
The night is not all about Cowboys as a story within the shaggy western tale becomes clear as the comedy continues. Rowlands breaks character and iis eager to talk about his recent break up, while Hare wants his partner to “stick to the script”. It is a funny conceit that returns throughout the show and ramps up the tension between the performers.
Rowlands is a confident comedy performer and provides some wonderfully silly and bizarre pronunciations and turn of phrases that have the room in fits of laughter. Hare is a fantastic foil and sparring partner for Rowland. His sincere, deadpan delivery is not only very funny but also endearing and wonderful to watch.
Both performers are excellent musicians and good singers. The strength of the comic songs gets stronger and stronger throughout the hour and the lyrics are well crafted and consistently raise laughs from a willing audience.
Several twists and turns keep the crowd guessing as to what will happen next. The performance is engaging to watch and keeps you gripped.
Particularly funny sections include a song about quicksand and the unusual way Edmonton saves Billy from a bear.
Rowland and Hare have created a wonderfully silly world for the crowd to enjoy, peppered with touching moments based around their camaraderie. It is lovely to see positive male friendship portrayed on stage combined with tight material, deftly performed.
Cowboys is a very accomplished show made by two comedians at the top of their game. Go and see it now.
Reviewed On 19th August.
Runs at Assembly Studio Four until august 28th 2022
The Reviews Hub Score
Yee Haw!
