What I liked
I liked that, as an American, I was introduced to a brand new historical figure. I came in to the show really knowing nothing, and I left with a new appreciation for a beloved comic and entertainer.
I also — gosh — just love one-person shows. Not only is it a brave high-wire act, there’s hardly anything that’s a purer expression of the artist. Niek Versteeg is creative and, above all, interesting. Even in this stripped-down production, Niek conveys the wonder and LOL humor of what Tommy Cooper must have been like.
Like so many artists, Tommy lived the life of a tortured performer. Niek navigates this with a poignancy that never gets heavy-handed.
What I didn't like
The only challenge for me at this production was, when (a not-yet-dead version of) Tommy was breaking the fourth wall and pouring his heart out, I didn’t know who I was supposed to be. A 70s British audience member? A confidant? Myself, watching a biopic? However, I got over that hangup pretty early in the show, and spent the rest of it enjoying myself.
My overall impression
“Tommy Cooper” is a brave, quirky and heartbreaking look into one of the U.K.’s best-loved entertainers.
