Robyn Perkins has been a familiar face at FRINGE WORLD for about a decade, but this is my first time seeing her in person; frankly, I should be embarrassed, and I don’t know why it’s taken me so long.
In my defense, the sheer volume of comedy shows on offer in the FRINGE WORLD program every year makes my head spin, so I tend to bury it in the theatrical/clowning corner of the comedy sandbox. Luckily, circumstances this year led me to Perkins’ kids show Comedy for the Curious: Animals! at Le Roi in the Belgian Beer Cafe (also a new-to-me Fringe venue). The minute Perkins took control of the utter chaos that was this Saturday afternoon’s audience, she made me a fan.
To begin with, a group of what first looked like grandparents turned out to be patrons who had booked tickets without realising it was a kids’ show. This caused a good few minutes of riotous laughter and banter; thankfully they were armed with full pints, which hopefully helped to steady their nerves during one of the loudest, shriekiest, chattiest shows I’ve ever attended. For my part, I had never been so grateful for my Loop earplugs.
To put it simply, the children were EXCITED to be there, squealing in favour of either cats or dogs in Perkins’ great debate, shouting out their knowledge about blobfish, nudibranchs, and other weird animals, and participating with full-body enthusiasm at every opportunity. Perkins somehow managed to stay on top of this room full of wild and wiggly chatterboxes. She and her musical show partner Gavin Nicklette, who showed so much composure, sweetness and calm, hit all their preset marks – songs, powerpoints, interactive games and all.
As a new fan, for my next hour of comedy with Robyn Perkins, I (and probably the lost ‘grandparents’) will check out her shows for grown-ups. But for those in search of a family show for ages 7+, Perkins delivers science-y material that’s fun, lively, and smart, getting both kids and adults up on their feet and laughing REALLY loud.
CICELY BINFORD
Comedy for the Curious: Animals! runs until 3 Feb 2025 at Le Roi at Belgian Beer Cafe. For tickets and more information, click here. Be sure to check the FRINGE WORLD website for Robyn’s other shows.
