After a week of back to back shows, we splashed through the torrential rains to Underbelly Med Quarter. To be honest, the excitement of the fringe had somewhat been washed away by the inclement weather and spirits were low. Then ‘The D-List’ began, and we remembered why the Fringe is so fantastic.
This comedy, from Shrapnel Theatre, is the story of Jamie who finds overnight fame on a TV talent show and notoriety when he swears on Children In Need. A pushy agent is soon on hand to guide Jamie to the heady heights of D-List celebrity.
Jamie is played by Samuel Curry, who is probably best known to audiences as a contestant on ‘The Apprentice’, but he is also an accomplished actor and it definitely shows on stage. As Jamie, he is all bright-eyed and innocent, unaware of the trappings that lay ahead and it is hard not to feel sorry for the character because of the way Curry steers the role.
Sylvia Briggs plays girlfriend Jen; she portrays the character with the perfect mix of comedy and frustration. Helen Rose Hampton plays several roles but primarily the agent. She is versatile and able to carry off the multiple roles. The best laughs come from Jonathan Matthews, playing best friend Max, who just seems to be the kind of person everyone should have as a best friend.
The show is incredibly funny, but also familiar and accurate. The lines about Instagram torsos and low rate TV appearances could apply so easily to just about any of the instant-celebs we have thrust in our faces every day of the week.
The brilliant cast and familiar storyline have made ‘The D-List’ our surprise hit of the Fringe.
