Toronto Fringe Review: Foodie & Bobo
Foodie and Bobo is a lighthearted piece from young creative troupe Night Light Collective. The show is described as “the best parts of your favourite sitcoms mashed together,” something the group accomplishes by weaving their primary storyline with satirical commercial breaks and reality show spoofs. With nine cast members and two clowns in the mix, it’s an ambitious undertaking that yields mixed results.
We are treated to some charming as hell actors, slick transitions, and a few dazzling outfits thanks to actor and costumer Joshua Hughes. It’s clear the Night Light Collective put a lot of work into this show and rehearsed to the point where it runs like clockwork.
That said, the script and staging could use more focus. Certain elements such as character relationships, jobs, and ambitions are introduced late in the show, making it difficult to root for our protagonists. The script would benefit from a clearer line where satire ends and sincerity begins. For example, character Betty frequently comments on Fran’s weight, something that is meant to demonstrate her shallowness. But, after a scene revolves around Fran’s refusal to cook or eat a vegetable, I was left wondering if the show’s POV is actually fatphobic. I don’t believe that to be the case, but it did give me pause.
The show shines when there are fewer characters on stage, putting the focus on classic clown antics that undercut moments of tension and highlight character flaws. This feels like the heart of the show: using comedy to mock the absurd in the tradition of many great clowns before. It’s something that, as this hardworking troupe grows, they’ll be able to do wonderful things with.
See it if you’re looking for some cheerful Fringe fare from an enthusiastic cast.
Foodie and Bobo is on now until July 16 as part of the 2022 Toronto Fringe Festival.
Find show times and tickets here.
There’s no shortage of truly hysterical stories throughout this special.