Brazen Hodgepodge: Sketch Comedy Review

Brazen Hodgepodge lives up to its name as a hilarious comedy ensemble with a refreshing, absurdist social commentary on trends in contemporary England. The eccentric cast comprised of Sam Gibbons, Michael Workman and Martha Cranston proves that comedy doesn’t have to be crude to be clever. The show is rated 16+ with some strong language and sexual references, but the sketches have something for everyone. They poke fun at people of all ages but never pander to the audience with stereotypes. This fast-paced, hour-long show leaves the audience satisfied and wanting more, the ideal outcome for a Saturday night viewing.

Sam, Michael and Martha have excellent chemistry on stage, bouncing off one another seamlessly, comparable to a young Mitchell, Webb and Coleman. The show provides over a dozen original sketches, each oozing with personality and wit. The audience embarks on a journey of satirical mayhem, referencing everything from masturbation to outdated technology and sexism in the workplace. My favourite recurring joke refers to the cultural phenomenon of ‘quiet quitting’, highlighting the relatability of exerting the bare minimum of energy to maintain a sustainable work-life balance.

The show contains many recurring themes without wearing them out and keeps the audience on their toes. The format is somewhat bizarre, but the structure feels intentional and well-thought-out. Brazen Hodgepodge incorporates self-aware audio transitions on an empty stage that build upon themselves, outdoing the last joke and leaving the audience in fits of laughter. Original parody songs written and performed by Gibbons and Workman provide relief between sketches and are surprisingly delightful due to the actors’ impressive vocal abilities.

If you’re looking for a silly, satirical, social commentary sketch show or a night out supporting local artists, keep an eye out for Brazen Hodgepodge’s next show. This ensemble, full of emerging talent, revives sketch comedy and brings it back to the mainstream. You don’t want to miss out on saying, ‘I saw them before they were famous’.

Rating: ★★★★★