Review: DAVID STRASSMAN'S ITEDE Combines Ventriloquism With Electronic Puppetry

Reviewed by Matthew John Plummer, Tuesday 24th May 2016

David Strassman's iTedE is currently touring Australia and is currently playing at Her Majesty's Theatre in Adelaide. This one-man show boasts new technology that brings "the worlds most advanced 'puppetronics' to the stage". It is amazing what this man can do with ventriloquism, with suspension of disbelief and imagination being the joint foci for this new show.

Audiences are drawn into the realm of Strassman's making, with the deliberate intentions of stirring the imagination of young and old, keeping the spirit of puppetry alive, and rivaling digital/CGI creations that, honestly, pale in comparison to the rich content of this live hands-on production.

Strassman's work has appeared on most variety shows in Australia. He has performed at fringe and comedy festivals, been televised on commercial stations, and toured the country with stage productions. His iTedE is yet another wonderful chapter in this impressive history, with hilarious comedy and a brilliantly sharp wit, delivered by larger than life characters with amazingly loveable personalities. It is truly magical to see these characters come to life and, at times, almost beyond belief that just one man is on stage controlling all of these characters. It really must be seen in person to appreciate the magnitude of Strassman's ability in ventriloquism and puppetry.

The performance was fast moving, with barely a moment's rest throughout, filled with punchy comedy, delivered by an incredible and experienced performer proving that ventriloquism really can be a popular form of comedy. A full house of doting fans got their money's worth, with a sea of happy faces and ripples of laughter constantly flowing from start to finish. Strassman was always aware and in tune with the effect his work was having on the audience.

Talented craftsmen like Strassman are proof that puppetry is here to stay. Go and see the very cute Ted E Bare, laugh at the black wit of Chuck Wood, meet the spaced out Kevin the Alien, Grandpa Fred, Buttons the pissed clown, and depraved Sid the Beaverman. You will have a wonderful night out and the chance to witness this extraordinary performer on stage with his new production, iTedE.

Here is a taste of Strassman.

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