Masterpiece

Two clowns create ‘fragile’ havoc as gallery installers; Rachel Colquoun- Fairweather and Will Bartolo, a first-rate duo, work together seamlessly in their much-heralded show Masterpiece.
They collaborate as opposites, in motivation, gag and performance. They step out on to the stage with a clunky shoe shuffle routine, holding on to the large art canvas (covered in bubble wrap and blue tape). It takes two people and four pairs of hands in white gloves to handle this piece of art. They are buffoons and want their audiences to be entertained with their story.

The beauty of their art form is how they go about completing a simple task with the most possible effort. How hard is it to hang a painting? (these guys are ‘supposed’ experts). And experts they are at mime and clowning. The minimalist painting is revealed, and they take a much-earned break, that gives rise to more hilarious comical moments when eating their lunch while their musician is on her break checking her iPhone oblivious to their mayhem. These guys are consistently engaging, savvy in their manner and tremendous at involving audience members.

They appear uncomplicated but are complex ‘odd couple’ characters. Fairweather is more likely to drop her end of the painting and rip the bubble wrap off carelessly while Bartolo is meticulous and careful. Not only are they a working pair, but they are also lovers that engage in love making and express rage and jealousy with hilarious expressive energy. These guys have the entire emotional range happening; they are truly amazing.

On the side of the stage, musician Gabi Bolt, with her keyboard and piano accordion tinkers with single musical notes and includes other kooky ambient sounds that add to their wonderful performance. There are many additional props to this show that provide colourful moments and depth to their simple yet complicated story and all are handled with ‘care’ and precision.

This is a great show for all ages, full of fun and entertainment.

Flora Georgiou