REVIEW: REBEL SPIRITS

From the chaotically creative minds of Devin Bateson and Justin Shaw, comes a medieval times inspired sitcom in front of a live studio audience (literally). Both bring high-octane, fearless physical comedic performances and rapid-paced prop mastery in their newest theatrical romp Rebel Spirits.

In a fantasy village, local pub dwellers Swift (Shaw) and Dash (Bateson) plot to overthrow the Castle. Swift is the man with the plan and Dash is the man hiding a secret that could ruin it all. There’s all the classic sitcom tropes: main action set piece, a door that everyone walks through and illicit a prompted audience reaction (cheer, laugh, boo), an abundance of supporting characters (stoner wizard, adorable puppet bar rag named Crunchy, chill mail carrier manticorn and a relentlessly concussed antagonist), mishaps and miscommunications and a hook that leaves you hopeful there will be more episodes to come.

This is a typically electric performance that Hamilton Fringe audiences now anticipate from Bateson and Shaw. There is so much originality and comedic magic here. Not only do these two performers play lead roles, they also don several hats or prop pieces to become every other character and you never know who will be doing what. This keeps the audience engaged and wondering what insanity is coming next. It also demonstrates the trust that Bateson and Shaw share and remains a wow factor in every show they are involved in together.

Rebel Spirits is an imaginative and polished production that also allows room for improvised asides and fourth wall breaks. It was already celebrating a sold out show on Saturday afternoon. It will be a delight for those who love sitcoms from the 80’s and 90’s, fantasy worlds, fearless creativity and rhythmic hip swiveling. Shows like this are why we love Fringe. Don’t miss it!