Turtle – Hens and Chickens Theatre

Created at the intersection of stand-up comedy, spoken-word poetry, and theatre, Bróccán Tyzack-Carlin’s Turtle entertained the audience for an entire hour at a cozy and warm Hens and Chickens theatre.

Bróccán’s energetic and zestful entrance gripped the audience right at the beginning and he successfully managed to keep them rolling in the aisles throughout the show.

Without adhering strictly to one form, Bróccán boldly explored multiple genres of performance and spoke about all kinds of topics- his life in North-East England, his education at Durham University, sex toys, politics and statues, juxtaposing Marxism and Spice Girls, and his obsession with Tim Westwood and turtles. These explorations were supported by strong characterisations performed with distinct accents, felicitous comic timing, and spontaneity.

The music and visual projections, though sparingly used, added context, character, and humour to the performance. Moments of wisdom and profundity seeped through the writing, making it a well-rounded performance. The audience’s energy played a pivotal role as Bróccán cleverly guided the audience to shift mindsets for different parts of his act.

Though the show hit home for most of the audiences, it may be challenging for an immigrant audience to always find relevance to the references provided in the show. Without a structural narrative, this highly personal performance can be said to be targeted at a niche audience that is aware of the British way of life.

Bróccán’s unique style of delivery and persona sets him apart as a stand-up artist. An extremely hilarious evening that I would thoroughly recommend for a British and second-generation immigrant cohort. https://www.unrestrictedview.co.uk/

Reviewer: Khushboo Shah

Reviewed: 20th February 2022

North West End UK Rating: ★★★★