Thar be treasure in them thar caves! I’m initially doubtful as over-the-top physical comedy and “Arrr Jim Lad” pirate voices prevail. But the dramatic pace is fast aided by Wayne’s World-style transitions through imaginative characters and scenes, where the talented trio from ‘Sleeping Trees’ exuberantly display their rapport, timing, movement and range of accents. Feisty improv caused a hilarity overload, holding the audience captive and forcing them to walk the plank of abandon. The hilarious ‘Not’ Jolly Roger character shivered me timbers (actual tears) with his lackadaisical inflection and disregard for Jim (who incidentally resembles Rhys Darby’s lovechild in a tropical vest). These spirited performers don’t need rum to keep us entertained, barrel load or otherwise.

Just The Tonic at The Caves, 2-26 Aug (not 14), 4.45pm.
tw rating 4/5 | [Mara Docherty]