COLIN'S BACK

I make no secret that I'm pretty bearish on improv at Fringe.

There's so many great, innovative and unique shows that you can't access any time of the year, and Edmonton has a strong improv scene that you can access around the year.

But, the appeal of this show is Colin Mochrie (he's back!) and honestly that's why my review is so poor.

At my showing, Colin honestly didn't do very much.

I get that improv is a team sport and if the show was all about him that would be just as bad, but... the very first game Colin "swapped out" and hosted, and it went on for some time. I very frequently saw him in the wings while other improvisers were doing their thing, and when there was a line for punchlines he only stepped forward once to make a joke.

I came to see Colin, and I left feeling unfulfilled. Probably should have just hit up something non-improv instead.

An improv show where the ensemble connect with each other and work well together. As I was in the 3rd row, I could see the silent communication/tapping of others to keep the bits going. I could even see the amusement on the faces of the group when someone went in a crazy direction that worked! Mostly, what surprised me was Colin's giving to his fellow stage members. This was truly an ensemble.

The half a star is for politics injected into the show. I suppose that's normal these days but I'm tired of having people assume I care about such things.

Colin Mochrie is an excellent improviser. As are the various guests who perform with him. The show delivers lots of laughs and is definitely worth the ticket price.

I didn't feel a lot of synergy between the improvisers (which made some of the bits fall flat for me), but that is always a possibility when watching this particular format of improv.

I saw this show with my parents and they both enjoyed it far more than I did, so take this review with a grain of salt -- I am definitely not Colin's Back's target audience, but that doesn't mean you won't be!

Bought these tickets because rarely do you see celebrities at these types of shows. Lucked out and was able to score tickets before all shows sold out.

Colin is and always will be hillarious. His quick wittyness had me engaged for the entire time.

Only gave it a 4 and Colin is awesome and alome is 5 stars. But the ticket sales rush and the off site location at the garneau was a bit harder to get to and find parking.

Colin Mochrie is at the Fringe yet again! His show always sells out. And with good reason - he’s still such an amazing and seasoned improviser! His timing is great and he’s just as good as ever. It was fun to see him performing with Kevin Gillese and Mark Meer. Talk about an improv all-star show!

The magic of this show is not Colin Mochrie alone. He's great, don't get me wrong, but the real takeaway for me is the kind of audience this man draws, and the kindness he shows his fellow performers.

This isn't some big-shot comedian putting on a self-interested comedy spectacle at a festival with a bunch of indie artists, this is a consummate professional with a workman-like mentality putting on a night of Improv with a bunch of talented friends. He supports his fellow improvisers, and jumps in to elevate the work.

Come for the Mochrie, stay for the comradery.

Colin’s Back — And So Are the Laughs By Martha Estrada Baca

Colin Mochrie along with his cast of friends deliver a hilarious performance that never ceases to entertain. From improv games to the recreation of a story from an audience member, the group was able to keep the audience constantly engaged whilst also maintaining the same lively energy throughout the show. There was never a dull moment as the performers had an incredible chemistry and rapport with each other that facilitated the comedic elements presented. The show also experimented with various forms of comedy include situational humour, sarcastic quips, snarky jokes, and wacky analogies. The manner in which each performer delivers their own unique performance is masterful yet authentic. The experience overall was very enjoyable and memorable because of each performer’s hard work and willingness to commit to their craft. I would highly recommend this show if you are someone looking for a laugh.