2 Magic Rubies, 1 Private Eye: A Dirk Darrow Investigation
From 21 Fringe Awards winner Tim Motley... Wowing crowds the world over, this hilarious private eye is part comedian, part mind-reader, & all gritty 1930‘s film-noir! _____ “The best private detective magician mentalist comedian” -Edmonton Sun _____ “Leave you speechless” -Theatre Matters. Patron’s Pick Award, Edmonton Fringe
Big Noir fan so this was a must-see on my agenda; saw the performance on the 18th. I wasn't sure how a one-person show would translate the genre to the stage, but I found myself continuously grinning as I noted the presence of all essential genre elements!
I went into this show completely blind! I had no idea what the premise would be, but within the first 5 minutes the performer did an excellent job communicating exactly what type of show was about to commence. A fast paced comedic one man show with lots of elements of magic that wowed a lot of the audience. Although the comedy wasn’t my cup of tea, the audience was enjoying themselves greatly at every clearly well rehearsed joke. Enjoying the show vicariously through the other patrons who were clearly having the time of their lives, amplified my enjoyment greatly! The actor and tech team worked hand and hand together executing perfectly timed transitions at the snap of a finger, and each audience interaction moment was satisfying thanks to the lighting fast wit of our lead detective!
Well Dirk is on the case again bringing the audience magic and hilariously raunchy jokes that are NSFW. This is not the show for you if you are sensitive! Be ready for lots of laughs, fast talking crime solving, and mind boggling magical intrigue!
I think I've come to the conclusion that Tim Motley's sense of humour just doesn't jive with me. The detective noire angle was the key to winning me over, and it's the only reason I've given it two stars. He did a hell of a job bringing the character of Dirk Darrow to life. I think most of the audience loved the show, so maybe you will too!
A Standing Ovation
Take a step forward into the “2 Magic Rubies, 1 Private Eye: A Dirk and Darrow Investigation,” an interactive comedic show with a splash of magic. Join Tim Motley as his junior investigators as he solves the mystery of a bank heist!
The story of this bank heist takes place back in 1932 with Detective Dirk Darrow. Loosely inspired by the classic noir tale called “The Maltese Falcon,” Darrow attempts the crack the case but by bit using clues, interrogations, and going through a maze of deception. Using his charm, wit, and incredible improvisation, Tim Motley truly brings this character to life.
Although there were minimal stage props and pretty much a one-man show, Tim Motley really brought it all with his puns and never forgot to take a step back for his dark humour. It definitely felt like it was 1932 since he kept using the Atlantic accent. The smallest technical choices enhanced the experience of the show. Whenever the audience was called upon, the audience lights would go up and red backlights would fade in. If the focus was meant to be on stage, then there would be a simple spotlight with blue backlights. The magic of the show would seem a little bit more real with Motley simply snapping his fingers as a cue to switch the lights. Overall, the experience was enjoyable and memorable for years to come.
It’s truly no surprise that the investigation concluded with a standing ovation with the audience, as Tim Motley really brought this story to life.
Mysterious, dark, and sexy. Rubies' Knockers and solving the mystery were constantly on my mind. The magic tricks were enjoyable but a bit predictable at times.