Toronto Fringe Review: An Evening with Devon & Jackie

Devon Henderson and Jackie Twomey. Photo by Peter Stelmach

Simultaneously a love letter to theatre while also tearing the industry to shreds, An Evening with Devon and Jackie is a sketch comedy revue from the minds of Jackie Twomey and Devon Henderson.

With an impressive number of accolades both as a duo and individually, both Henderson and Twomey have a deep understanding and mastery of sketch comedy. Their comedic style hits hard and fast, with a keen specificity, smart references and witty dialogue.

From the very first moment they step on stage, these two performers take command to set the bombastic tone for the show to come. Combined with great lighting design by Matt Keevins and the expert touch by director Kirsten Rasmussen, the duo commits hard and keep this energetic show riding high right through to the end.

Usually, in sketch comedy shows with such sharp writing, the physicality in the scene can often feel like an afterthought. But they take care to embody their characters to give them particular mannerisms that help elevate the comedy past quick jokes.

The subject matter for the sketches run the gambit with regards to premises and style. Whether they’re playing character’s that are closer to themselves or digging into something more absurd like an overeager moon Martian, the way these two are able to take the smallest crumb of an idea and cook it into a seven-course meal is truly exceptional. 

From revamping old, obscure sitcoms to checking in the old bank book, An Evening with Devon and Jackie has something for everyone and will leave you in stitches.

An Evening with Devon and Jackie is on now until July 17 as part of the 2022 Toronto Fringe Festival.
Find show times and tickets here.