FRIEND (The one with Gunther) Review Adelaide Fringe 2020
Friends, the show that continues to capture generations despite airing the final episode in 2004 and Gunther the character that appeared on almost as many episodes as the main cast, FRIEND is precisely what Friends fans didn’t know they wanted until they got it. Performed by British comedian/actor Brendan Murphy, FRIEND (The One With Gunther) reveals the introverted and quirky but much-loved side character in a whole new spotlight.
Murphy creatively portrays Gunther’s idiosyncratic personality and devastating lust for character Rachel Green in an hour-long performance that explores the rather mysterious character and his, or what could have been his journey and ultimately his fantasy ending.
Friends fans delight in the amusing and corny references as Gunther takes us each on a rapidly moving adventure from Pilot episode 1 all the way to “The Last One” episode 17, season 10.
Although wholly based on the show Friends audience-members who don’t own Friends t-shirts, mugs or perhaps those who haven’t even watched an episode would still manage to be delighted with the hilarious audience participation, wacky personality and goofy skits and songs.
Murphy, occasionally a little too fanatic and frenzied, leaving you nervous and on the edge of your seat for almost the wrong reasons. However, Murphy still manages to put on a humorous show filled with minor details from the sitcom that even the most passionate of fans may have forgotten. Feverishly committed to his stage-presence and cleverly talented, I look forward to seeing more of Brendan Murphy in the future.
Written by Hayley Sutter
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