Review – Neal Portenza’s Test Show. This is not a real show. Don’t even come. (Maybe do but).

Comedy’s hard, you guys, which is why Dr. Professor Neal Portenza is only doing a test run this year. The real show will follow in 2015. For now, make sure you have your feedback form handy (pens are provided) so you can appraise the show towards its continual improvement.

Test Show is an hour of experimental gags and absurdist conceits, as Josh Ladgrove crafts a comedy of trial and failure. The clownish comedian, with assistance from the faithful Mr Buttons, takes the audience through a ceaseless showcase of nonsense and misdirection. (Such as the programme guide which promises, but fails to deliver on, the crucifixion, resurrection and re-crucifixion of Sale of the Century’s Glenn Ridge.) The silliness is fun, saccharine, cringe-worthy and thoroughly giggle-worthy. (My personal highlight — Josh calls his grandmother, mid-show, to blame her for a costume failure. It’s not hysterically funny, but it’s just a little bit lovely and a genuinely entertaining segue.)

In other reviews, it’s been pointed out Test Show is like a kid’s show for adults. I think that’s probably right, and to best enjoy it you should prepare to abandon your inhibitions, brace for some light audience participation, and engage your immaturity. Of course you’re still welcome to bring your ordinary sullen self, but you’ll miss some of the finer moments from this off-beat performance.