Review: STAMPTOWN, Netflix
Photo credit: Van Corona
Stamptown, a hit Edinburgh Fringe variety show,is currently celebrating its 10th anniversary. In those 10 years, it has gained a significant following in the UK and the USA. Now, audiences across the globe can enjoy a version of the show staged and filmed especially for streaming for Netflix.
Stamptown is a variety show like none you’ll ever have witnessed before. It comes across as chaos, very funny chaos, but creator Zach Zucker has crafted the show with immense care. Zucker knows exactly how long a gag can run for and makes sure it stops just before it becomes irritating. There is a great mix of styles of comedy and performance featured, so there will be something for everyone (or at least everyone over 18!) It’s perhaps not the best show, however, for those who don’t appreciate nudity as this is a variety show intended to shock!
Zach Zucker, as his alter-ego comedian Jack Tucker, hosts the show excellently. The character of Jack Tucker is brilliant fun - full of chaotic energy, giving the impression that he has everything under control even though he most certainly doesn’t. Zucker has impeccable comic timing, aided by the perfect timing from the sound department. He has a ridiculous amount of energy which never lets up, but he also knows, for the most part, when he needs to let his acts have their moment in the spotlight.
Each act brings something unique to the table and we can’t possibly mention each performer individually.
Martin Urbano is a particular highlight of the show, playing the role of a New York based reviewer. He brings a slightly slower pace at just the right junctures to deliver excerpts of the review he’s writing. Urbano ‘s writing is incredibly witty, summing up exactly what the audience is thinking, getting laughs from recognising the absurdity of the fever dream we’re all witnessing.
Jordan Gray brings their musical talent and wonderful stage presence to the show. She is incredibly entertaining, sings well whilst accompanying herself on piano, and brings some beautiful trans representation to the show.
Chad Damiani is a delight throughout the show. Amidst the choreographed carnage, through movement and body language alone, Damiani brings a whole lot of heart to the show. He is incredibly expressive and gives us an underdog to root for. When he gets to fulfil his dream towards the end of the show, we’re filled with joy (even if the climax to the story does feel slightly anticlimactic).
Stamptown is the perfect Netflix special for some late-night, feel good fun and the laughs definitely still land even when you’re not in the room. It has the energy and chaotic feel of Mischief Comedy at their best, whilst it being clear that the show has been put together with immense care and attention to detail. People say that variety is a dying art form, but Zach Zucker and the whole team at Stamptown are working hard to keep the variety show alive!
***** Five stars
Reviewed by: Jacob Bush
Stamptown is available to stream on Netflix.