When your last name is Wang, why not milk it for all it’s worth? Phil Wang has mastered the art of incorporating his name into any scenario or sentence to comical effect. It is this brilliant balance of silly and smart comedy that make this show such an enjoyable experience.
With a Malaysian Chinese father and mother from Stoke-on-Trent, Wang is a product of the British empire and it’s this dichotomy which shapes his material. He takes turns tackling both cultures, poking fun and playing in to common Asian stereotypes as well as critiquing the all too well known idiosyncrasies of the British.
Over the course of the hour we get to know a lot about Wang and what makes him tick. He hates scary movies, is a closet baby enthusiast (especially the fat, confused kind) and has a hilariously elaborate plan on how he will pull off a hero’s death. These eccentricities range from the relatable to the outlandish but all garner laughs effortlessly under Wang’s deft comedic eye.
In between these droll musings, Wang also takes the opportunity to share his political views with the crowd. His thoughts on racism, post-colonialism and notion of Britishness from the perspective of an immigrant are particularly compelling and insightful.
Overall this debut offering from Phil Wang was a solid and engaging hour of political-personal commentary without a dull moment to be had. His dual ethnic identity brings something quite unique to the table, one which resonated well among Kiwi crowds with NZ being such a melting pot of cultures.
Phil Wang pretty much sold out his entire run at The Classic so here’s hoping this is the first visit of many to our shores! There’s still an opportunity to see him in Wellington as part of The Big Show in Te Auaha which is on until 19 May. For more info and to book tickets, click here.
comedy | theatre | live entertainment | performing arts 