Raul Kohli: Kohl and The Gang
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review by: Samantha Pressdee
With his Newcastle accent and warm demeanour Raul Kohli makes the perfect comedy host. He tells us he is British of Indian descent and launches into well written and hilarious jokes about terrorism, catfish and the cost of living. He is a cheeky guy, veers onto politics but keeps the banter friendly, making everyone feel at home. Through excellent crowdwork, he builds up the energy of the room, getting us excited to meet his guests.
First up is Oren Shbiro from Canada. He tells us he is engaged and has us all in stitches with jokes about relationships. He’s edgy, venturing into race, masculinity and religion but holds the room well with accomplished writing and flawless delivery complimented by sharp act-outs.
Next up is Alexander Popov. A deadpan school teacher from Estonia. He looks like a garden gnome and much material is derived from his comical appearance. He tells us he used to work as a bouncer before he became a teacher and his clever deconstruction of the differences and the similarities between the two professions result in many laughs.
American Leah Renee takes to the stage next. She’s been married sixteen years, and tells some very funny vagina jokes. Gross at times, but rooted in relatability she wins the rooms with her black and blue humour. Her hypnobirth story is particularly interesting. A strong comic skill set brings the audience to roaring laughter, with comparisons between the USA and Scotland being particularly delightful.
Finally we have Kyle Legacy from Liverpool who does not hold back. Opening with a strong topper to one of Rauls jokes, he brings a sense of camaraderie to the room. Kyle has the energy of a football hooligan about to kick off, which brings a sense of danger to the show. He is by far the edgiest of the five acts. Refreshingly, he is as anti-PC as it gets. His archetypal jack the lad vibe perhaps enabling him to dodge the bullets of would be censors who have dominated the comedy world in recent years.
Overall a brilliant show. A well put together lineup of comedians from all over the world, giving us culture as well as comedy.
Raul Kohli: Kohl and The Gang is at Laughing Horse @ The Three Sisters 8pm PWYC tickets available here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/raul-kohli-kohl-and-the-gang