Cool, slick and very funny, The Birdmann is the second of a double bill at the Regent on Broadway on opening night of the first Palmy Fringe Festival.

This is a must see – very original, high class comedy with sharp moves, a message and a well-developed story line. It is suitably multi-layered to draw in the children and the adults.  Trent Baumann, AKA The Birdmann, has a very engaging and effective way of wooing an audience and getting them involved with the story.

Like all good comedy performances this is both simple and sophisticated. The juggling of plastic supermarket bags also has an environmental message – but the juggling itself is beautifully phrased and theatrical. It providesq a visual dimension to the tale.

But that’s not all folks; there is wonderful idiosyncratic dance – great choreography! There is a clever use of music, the timing is excellent and the song lovely. The Birdmann can bring out the pathos as well as the laughs.  And it has a superb ending, so you have to go to find out!

For the show the audience sits on the stage of this large proscenium arch 1930s art deco theatre. But the lighting and seating arrangement give the right intimate feel for the show. It is a good innovative move for the Regent Theatre and shows its versatility.

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