Writer: Janet Taylor
Director: Molly Byrne
An egotistical character, exaggerated to the point of delusion, is a recognised comedy trope. However, it is also a risky one which puts pressure on the performer to keep the audience engaged with either an original take on the gag or a stellar execution of it. In Varnish, fortunately, Jonathan Mayor does enough of both to stay afloat.
Posing the question ’When did I know I was special?’, Mayor deep-dives into being chosen from birth (as part of the adoption process) in this faux celebrity-expose. He delivers a witty and entertaining performance, displaying natural comic abilities, and director Molly Byrne has made intelligent creative choices to maintain momentum, regardless of audience response.
The incorporation of canned laughter and pre-recorded applause during the earlier material brilliantly sets the tone of the piece and kicks the audience into gear as a comedy performance can only soar so high in a quiet room. This tactic could afford to be continued further, or at least re-introduced at later points, to ensure energy throughout as the intimate VAULT space is unlikely to ever encourage a completely raucous response. Despite this, Mayor’s stamina and charisma does not waiver.
Finding his own lane within the self-absorbed trope, Mayor commits to the act of spotting, and name-dropping, numerous celebrities within his audience. This is a secure returning gag which always receives a chuckle and a tactic which feeds into not only the character’s ego, but also the narrative progression of the show. As the backstory and psyche of the character comes into full view, their constant self-glorification also becomes quite a desperate facade which brings real depth to the production.
Varnish is a well-considered production with a lot to offer. A heartfelt look into the life-long repercussions of the adoption process, as well as acute observations on race, indicate writer Janet Taylor’s original, thoughtful voice beneath the comedy layers. With a few brilliant props and effective lighting support, Mayor brings the space to life and if you give him an hour of your time he won’t let you down.
Runs until 5 February 2023
The Reviews Hub Score
Entertaining
