Delightfully funny and extremely clever, Live Manga proves that you don’t need words to communicate with an audience — just wonderfully wacky characters, expressive physical comedy, and perfectly timed sound effects.

Featuring the iconic duo Masa and Hitoshi from GABEZ (of Tokyo Olympic Opening Ceremony fame), the show bursts into life from the moment they hit the stage. Their boundless energy is infectious, drawing the audience in within seconds. Audience participation is central to the experience and you simply can’t help but get involved and enjoy every silly, joyful moment.

Masa and Hitoshi are impeccably in sync. Even the most meticulously choreographed moments leave space for the audience to influence the direction of a scene, and the performers clearly revel in the challenge. While there are playful nods to the familiar “serious leader versus lovable sidekick” dynamic, the show is far from predictable and keeps surprising right through to the end.

What begins with simple jumping and marching soon escalates into increasingly absurd territory, including a standout scene involving a squeaky rubber duck that had the entire audience in stitches. Moments of mime used to acknowledge the backstage crew are a lovely, thoughtful touch, and the performers’ gentle teasing of audience reactions only adds to the charm.

A particularly memorable highlight is an outrageous game of tug-of-war that fully involves the audience and perfectly captures the spirit of the show. Even when the crowd takes a moment to respond, Masa and Hitoshi turn it into comedy gold, heightening the anticipation and drawing everyone along with them.

Live Manga is a truly inclusive Fringe show — perfect for all ages. The audience ranged from seven-year-olds to seventy-year-olds, and everyone was completely captivated.

A joyful, light-hearted, and wonderfully silly performance that leaves you smiling long after it ends.

4.5 stars

By Mel Watt

Live Manga
The Kingfisher at Gluttony
Rated G
Sat 28 Feb – Sun 01 Mar: 6:00pm
TICKETS