VOTE BATT! Tim Batt
Montecristo - Downstairs, Auckland
03/05/2016 - 14/05/2016
Fringe Bar, 26-32 Allen St, Te Aro, Wellington
26/04/2016 - 30/04/2016
NZ International Comedy Festival 2016
Production Details
FINALLY, TIM BATT IS RUNNING FOR OFFICE
Starting April 26th in Wellington and May 3rd in Auckland – Tim Batt, the kiwi comic known for his blend of psychedelic drug stories, pseudo-philosophy and personal tales of heartbreak is using the 2016 Comedy Fest. to enter politics. In the spirit of democracy, the show will be open to all, regardless of political leanings or complete apathy toward our ruling class.
The public is crying out for a new type of politician. One with the everyday appeal of John ‘Watch me fit this whole hotdog in my mouth’ Key, the bra-burning feminism of Hillary Clinton and the weed-smoking abilities of a young Obama. In VOTE BATT!, Tim will convince you to either vote for him or abandon democracy entirely. The show/political rally promises to be a mix of laughs, smarts and fun audience interaction.
Tim has been gracing the small screens of New Zealand for the last few years on shows including Jono & Ben at Ten, 7 Days and The Late Night Big Breakfast. His podcast The Worst Idea of All Time (co-hosted by comedian Guy Montgomery) is a smash hit and critical darling, netting over three million downloads within two seasons and glowing praise from VICE, The Guardian, The AV Club and more.
Tim was awarded Best Newcomer Award in 2013 and has been twice nominated for the prestigious Billy T Award (2014 & 2015). Additionally, he’s performed in Melbourne and Los Angeles opening for acts like Rhys Darby and Kristen Schaal.
“A brilliantly sharp wit and a deeply philosophical mind” – 3News
“An amiable, grinning charmer and a very angry, political man” – Gather and Hunt
“Reactive opinions on par with George Carlin… and almost optimistic exuberance” – TheatreScenes
TIM BATT – VOTE BATT!
WELLINGTON
Dates: Tue 26 – Sat 30 April, 7pm
Venue: The Fringe Bar, 26-32 Allen St
Tickets: $15 – $20
Bookings: iticket.co.nz // 0508 ITICKET (484 253)
AUCKLAND
Dates: Tue 3 – Sat 14 May, 8.30pm
(No shows Mon, Sun show 7.30pm)
Venue: Montecristo – Downstairs, 53 Nelson St
Tickets: $15 – $20
Bookings: eventfinda.co.nz // 0800 BUY TIX (289 849)
As part of the 2016 NZ International Comedy Festival powered by Flick Electric Co. from 22 April – 15 May.
For the full line-up of shows in the Festival head to comedyfestival.co.nz
Theatre , Solo , Comedy ,
Smart, enjoyable political comedy
Review by Simon Howard 30th Apr 2016
Taking inspiration from the political rise of candidates like Donald Trump, Tim Batt is a man on a mission, stepping away from his career as a stand-up comedian to try his hand at politics. We are welcomed into the Fringe Bar for what we are being told is a ‘political rally’.
Batt mingles with the audience, handing out badges and taking photographs with people as they take their seats. We are being encouraged to Vote Batt. For what office? Doesn’t matter. The tone is set and the charm offensive has begun.
From the start, Batt is sharp and to the point. He opens up the audience’s eyes to the methods employed by politicians to gain favour with the public and signposts the key elements he requires in his own campaign. Personal stories align neatly with his policy platforms, weaving together in a way that is both hilarious and insightful.
Escapades in America are eloquently told as Batt covers a whole range of issues, from education and justice to drugs. The farcical nature of proceedings allows the audience to go along with Batt, as he briskly presents thoughtful ideas only to interject them with crude asides.
The overall concept of the show is well thought out, but there is still enough spontaneity and audience interaction to make it feel fresh. We are asked what policies we want to hear about, and Batt teases audience members about their jobs in a friendly way to make his point.
This does feel like a show which is still being worked out in places. Yet by engaging with his audience and responding to the environment, the parts of the show which feel raw really work. Batt is totally committed to the performance, and the hour never drops in pace and energy.
In the current global climate, Vote Batt is well-timed. For fans of smart, enjoyable political comedy this comes highly recommended.
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