Frantic Fun

Posted on June 25, 2008
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Posted by Sierra

“What did the mama buffalo say to her baby buffalo as he headed off to school?” “Bye-son!” This is just one of the jokes that can be heard at the Frantic Follies show in Whitehorse, Yukon. There are many other jokes to keep you laughing—including bad and good ones.

Founded by Jim Murdoch in 1970, Frantic Follies have survived several moves, as well as going on tour. By 1973, it was so popular that the producers decided to hold two shows a night.

In the particular performance I saw, there were nine cast members out of the 16 listed in the program. These included three chorus girls, a leading lady, and five men, all of whom were musicians.

The show begins with a review of the basic Rules While in Theatre (cell phone OFF, NO food and/or drink, you get the picture). There is a little preparation sort of idea floating around (“What do you mean by MC?” “Master of Ceremonies.” “That’s not in the script!” “It’s right there!” “Oh, I thought that said MD, like a doctor.”) There is one particular joke that progresses throughout the show, but—in case you ever see it—I won’t spoil it for you.

Zoom. Off the performance goes. Off into the singing, dancing, and acting. The cast brings people out of the audience for certain numbers.

Overall, the songs are well sung, the dancing is well done, and necks are well rung. It is fun for the whole family, though a couple of jokes may not be understood by younger children, thank God. As the performance comes to an end, it is easy to find yourself satisfied yet sad that it’s over.

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