Reviewed by: Glam Adelaide
Review by Ben Stefanoff | 26 February 2024
From the creative minds at Interactive Theatre International (the genius company behind Faulty Towers The Dining Experience and Confetti & Chaos) comes this brand new slap-stick children’s show…Signor Baffo. Meet Baffo (Josh Burton), a dishwasher at Signor Figaro’s restaurant. When Figaro calls in sick, Baffo takes it upon himself to run the restaurant…what could possibly go wrong? You guessed it…everything! There is so much to love about this show. From the moment he rides into the venue on his imaginary bike, you are drawn to his warmth and child-like innocence. They say you should never work with children and animals, however Burton has the magic touch. Despite his young volunteers not quite following instructions, Burton navigates the ever changing environment and somehow keeps the show heading in the right direction. No easy feat! This show has so much heart. The show blends gag after hilarious gag with a joyful sense of wonder and fun, with a nicely balanced script. Baffo’s innocence is beautifully played by Burton, to the point that when things go wrong (deliberately), despite the children in the audience finding it hilarious, as an adult, you feel sorry for Baffo. Burton’s physicality is amazing. His lanky physique only aids the comic humour. His patter is natural — you can’t tell where the scripted side of the show stops and the ad libbing starts. It’s easy at Fringe time to go back to your favourite ‘tried and true’ shows, especially when it comes to kids shows. However, Signor Baffo is worth adding to your 2024 wish list. A light-hearted script, clowning and a good-old pie in the face gag — this show has it all. Escape for an hour with Signor Baffo and let him dish you up a chaotic and fun hour of family fun.