Simon David plays the frenzied host for a jolly hour of frivolity as an array of comics showcase the joys of mischief
For this April Fools’ Day, comedian Simon David has become the April Fools Gay. That is, he dresses up in a baby blue onesie and jester’s hat, then presents his set before a backdrop of cut-out emojis. In an online fundraiser for the transgender support fund FiveforFive, David appears to prank various friends, his boyfriend and the authorities – resulting in the demise of his relationship and a hefty fine.
It’s a showcase for his love of the annual day to be silly and mischievous, and David isn’t letting Covid-19 restrictions stop him. He has even recorded his own gag-filled theme tune for the occasion.
David incorporates Covid’s impact on the arts into his performance and, throughout, there are sketches and performances from special guests, often touching on our “new normal”. Comic Catherine Cohen tunes in from New York to play a satirical song on lockdown woes – and her love for masturbation – delivered with gusto. In another skit, actor Chris Larner inexplicably pretends to be David’s father; in true dad fashion, his face is centimetres from the camera on the video call.
Highlights include sketch duo Mother, who perform as fictional HR workers Pam and Toni. Nibbling on a plate of chocolate fingers, they roast their colleagues as they go through an anonymous comments and suggestions box for their workplace. Then, there is Jen Ives’ witty sketch based on the classic trick of gluing a pound coin to the pavement – which is funny, until she realises she might need it for the trolley deposit at the supermarket.
Some pranks go too far. Guest star Jack Sheppard calls his mum pretending that he’s beaten up and bundled into the boot of a car, complete with the snapping of a breadstick to mimic the breaking of his legs. Still, Sheppard is very funny.
Without hearing a live audience respond, there are some lulls in David’s set but overall this is an hour of jolliness and frivolity.
Available online until 8 April.
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