What I liked
Punch and Judy is unequivocally, absolutely, and un-hyperbolically the most crisp, precise, and undeniably funniest show I’ve seen this year.
As we were leaving after the show, driving north toward the 101, I was almost mad at the show for being so good. I exclaimed, “that show… that right there… that is why there is no excuse for doing things halfway. That is why there is no excuse for sloppiness or laziness. Because a show like that proves that if you do the work to find the people who are trained to do what you need them to do, and if you put the time and energy into making the show the absolute best it can be, then you get Punch and Judy.”
The scalpel-like precision of every hit, ever head turn, every crack of the drum are astounding. The sheer explosive energy from every single member of the cast and team is mind-blowing. And good GOD is it funny!
I have truly not a negative thing to say about this show. So much of Fringe can be, how to say this, “fringy.” Punch and Judy surpasses the herd with the astounding professionalism and attention to detail that come from extreme skill, zero ego, and a clinical compulsion to delight the audience. If this show comes back around, you will never forgive yourself if you miss it again.
What I didn't like
The only thing I could possibly say against this show is that it’s not running weekly. I would watch this show weekly. Like, I would schedule it into my leather-bound, paper planner like the nerd that I am and take time out to go to this show weekly. (Please do this show weekly.)
My overall impression
If you’re looking for something pretty funny and kinda silly, this isn’t it. If you’re looking for a show that will kick the living s**t out of your brain and leave you convulsing with sobs of laughter until your throat bleeds, yeah this is the one.
