Birds: Alex Hines And Sarah Stafford comedy review – Absurd Aussie antics
Fresh, unhinged and camp, this surreal two-hander is sharp of wit and impossible to predict
Birds is a neon preapocalyptic paradise in which comedians Alex Hines and Sarah Stafford absolutely smack the audience (and each other) in the face with surreal Aussie humour. Appearing on stage in hair and make-up that would unsettle the most outrageous of drag queens, it’s clear that there is no limit to the strange story that’s about to unfold.
On a deserted beach, two kindred spirits meet and, in a haze of colourful kaftans and cigarette smoke, bond over a shared love of trash radio and spectacular trauma. With the undiluted awkwardness expected from shows such as Kath And Kim, Hines and Stafford takes the joke to an extreme as five-time divorcee Shayna, and mother of 12, Beverley, spill their secrets and singe in the sun together amidst a few small issues including houses falling into the sea, children drowning and their skin melting.
It’s a refreshing, unique and welcome take on absurd comedy that includes some incredibly clever one-liners. Despite a few small issues with timing, which at the start of the Fringe is expected, Birds left the audience shocked and in awe.
Birds: Alex Hines And Sarah Stafford, Assembly George Square, until 30 August, 7pm.