Attenborough and his Animals

One of the most recognisable voices in wildlife documentaries must be the dulcet tones of Sir David Attenborough. Providing us with an intimate look inside the world of animals, he has provided much joy for this reviewer over the years.

Clownfish Theatre is a UK based company comprised of performers Jess Clough-MacRae and Jonathon Tilley. Multi-skilled, they have found a way to transport the essence of this loved documentary maker and naturalist to the stage.

With nothing but a bare performance space, sound effects and each other Clough-MacRae and Tilley are hysterically funny. With the art of mime and clowning they manage to imitate the movements and sounds of our natural world. Tilley’s voice is eerily like Attenborough and Clough-MacRae’s rubbery face provides unbelievably evocative imagery.

This duo hit the ground running with an abundance of energy and hilarity. Imitating animals such as the blue whale and sloths, their mimicry had the audience in stitches. Clough-MacRae’s interpretation of a gorilla was sublime!

The joy of the actors is infectious. Using physical comedy to touch on important topics is a fantastic way to leave audiences with a lasting message. Tackling issues such as climate change, habitat loss and pollution the show left me wondering if this presentation should not be performed in Australian Parliament.

I can’t recommend this show highly enough; funny from start to finish it is money well-spent for adults and children alike.

Kerry Cooper

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