May 15, 2011
Frisky and Mannish – The College Years
The North Wall, 13 May 2011
It is quite hard to know how to classify their unique act. Part burlesque, part satirical comedy – they fuse a range of styles into something all their own. The core of the evening is a clever deconstruction of pop songs – which may sound a little pretentious – however in the hands of two skilled musicians and performers, it is witty, intelligent and entertaining music theatre.
Frisky (Laura Corcoran) is blessed with an incredible voice (one of the largest ranges I have ever heard from any singer) and a wicked glint in her eye. She is in complete command of her talents at all times and controls the flow of the evening perfectly.
Mannish (Matthew Jones) is a brilliant pianist as well as having a wonderfully flexible voice and equally flexible face. I first spotted his talent when I reviewed his performance in a production of The Threepenny Opera a few years ago, and I am pleased to say that he is more than fulfilling the potential that I saw in him then. A triple threat – a comedian, a singer and a great musician.
It was a very mixed audience in the North Wall – with ages ranging from 15 to well over 60 and even though some of the pop references may have not been picked up by everyone, the reaction to the energy, skill and verve of the performance was enough to carry us all along.
Britain has long had a tradition of talented musical comedians – Flanders and Swann, Kit and the Widow, Fascinating Aida – and now Frisky and Mannish. Their College Years tour is now drawing to a close – but new material is being prepared for their next show. It is certainly going to be a must-see event.
If you can't wait – check them out on YouTube: you won't be disappointed.