THEATRE REVIEW: Skyduck
25.05.2023 at Circa Theatre
With only two more showings of this performance in Te Whanganui-a-Tara, I encourage you to make your way to Circa Theatre for a night of eccentric hilarity delivered at breakneck speeds by the marvellous Sam Wang.
Wang’s Skyduck sees the beloved Circa One stage converted into an Action-Comedy adventure guaranteed to please. Within a Rubix Cube combination of multi-functional theatre elements, and props that revolve, unfold and explode — Wang takes us on a journey through the insides of a fighter jet cockpit, wintry mountains, the literal matrix (TWICE!), Japanese Commercials from the 1990’s, international video game conventions, Sydney? And his mind.
He also flaunts his ability to switch characters on a whim, embodying everything from a self righteous American National Security Agent, to a Flamboyant Australian stunt pilot, and a chaotic Chinese Spy Duo. If that isn’t enough, Wang is also a chef on stage. Literally. And he’s a brilliant mixologist in the writing room — whipping up a cocktail of well balanced sarcastic realism and nostalgia that will have you giggling and feeling a little tipsy.
Wang also delivers half the show in Mandarin. Don’t worry though! His use of subtitles projected over pop culture references ensures we can follow along just fine. The confident stance in his own whakapapa allows Wang to simultaneously tickle the ego of Hollywood Action film tropes whilst paying homage to his own inspirations and nostalgic references.
Now you might think that being a crazy man, comical genius and bilingual icon is enough juggling for one person, but you’re wrong. Wang is also an incredibly dynamic performer who utilizes every inch of the venue to conceal magic and surprise the audience. He is the living embodiment of the saying, ‘never let them know your next move’ and it is a delightful chaos to experience.
I think it important to acknowledge that this show was first workshopped 13 years ago at Aotearoa’s very own Toi Whakaari (New Zealand School of Performing Arts) right here in Te Whanganui-a-Tara. As a current student of the Kura, I have been hearing whispers within the walls of Te Whaea about the show's homecoming and decided it was one I couldn’t miss. Since its school day’s Skyduck has since hatched and fledged into a solo show unlike anything I expected to see.
Skyduck is not only a brilliant reach into the outer edge of comedic theatre’s comfort zone, but a daring and unapologetically unique show by a blooming performer who, in the breakneck speed of his genius, delights the audience from start to finish.
You will not come across another show like this and I encourage anyone, whatever you’re looking for, to head along and see it.
■
Director: Aileen Huynh
Writer & Performer: Sam Wang
Producers: Sums Selvarajan & Sam Wang
Lighting Design: Kelsey Lee
AV Design: Sam Wang & Aileen huynh
Sound design: Tauese Tofa