Comedy with the lot
 
REVIEWED BY DANNY GOCS
COMEDIAN Martin Short presents a classy, entertaining show that combines stand-up comedy, singing, dancing and a smorgasbord of highlights from his movie and TV career.
Short is best known for his film roles in The Three Amigos and as the wedding planner Franck in Father of the Bride and his TV interviewer Jimmy Glick, but the accomplished Canadian-born star has also won Emmy and Tony awards for his work.
Short, 59, has a fine voice and in his show at Crown last week performed several songs, ably assisted by his pianist Jeff Babco, including numbers from his own show, Fame Becomes Me, and a clever version of Neil Diamond’s America where he sends up Aussie actors in Hollywood.
While there are plenty of humorous lines in his stand-up routine, the show moves along at a good pace with amusing film clips to introduce segments in his show. We saw a synchronised swimming routine from Saturday Night Live, plus witty impersonations of stars ranging from Al Pacino to Elizabeth Taylor.
Short dressed up in character as one of the Three Amigos and Franck to continue the laughs made famous in the hit movies. As Jimmy Glick, heavily disguised beneath a fat suit and a face covered in latex and make-up, he interviewed local comedian and TV host Shaun Micallef in an improvised segment that was too drawn out.
One of the more amusing segments was when Short wore a flesh-coloured bodysuit as he talked about the musical Hair, which required performers to appear nude on stage. Short proved to be a consummate performer and raconteur as he joked, sang, danced and involved members of the audience in his shows at the Palms at Crown in Melbourne from May 28-30.
Short’s Australian tour includes shows in Perth, Sydney and Brisbane.¬†
 
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