Creating skits based around a subject matter as tried and tested as relationships can so easily turn into a string of banal scenes that we’ve all seen before. Hook Up however, manages to comment on classic relationship issues in a refreshingly original and often, hilarious fashion.

The story opened on our narrator for the night (Nick Hedger), a self confessed commitment-phobe whose nimble fingered piano accompaniments frame the entirety of the show. After a punchy opening song, the audience follows Hedger’s quest to better understand relationships through scenarios he constructs with the other actors who are initially portrayed as unwitting audience members that he calls up on stage.

Unfortunately, the role of the narrator as a puppeteer conducting a social experiment wasn’t effectively developed and was often forgotten throughout the show. Essentially Hook Up is a collection of snippets looking at the interactions between different couples therefore, the narrator’s subplot didn’t seem wholly necessary. This small detail however, should not distract from the exceptional calibre of performers and material that made up the meat of the show.

Michelle Brasier was a definite standout. Her solo performance of “Murphy’s Law” displayed control, colour and character in her impressive vocals. Her skill as a singer paired with her clear understanding of comedic timing and nuances made her an absolute pleasure to watch. Laura Johnston was touching in her portrayal of a woman trapped by the expectations of being a perfect partner for her somewhat insensitive boyfriend (Josh Elwood). Another shout out goes to Vincent Milesi who never missed an opportunity to bring out the humour in the script. His comedic choices and ad-libs had the audience in stitches.

Although with the scenarios the characters found themselves in, it was hard not to spend half the show laughing. A Massive kudos to the writers (Ben Nicholson, Nick Hedger and Michelle Brasier) for finding ways to avoid looking at relationships through a stereotypical lens for most of the show. A highlight was the drinking card game scene between Brasier and Milesi that poked fun at the complications that creep up on long-term couples. The following song “Trust Exercise”, a commentary on open relationships, was another hilariously staged number.

Giggles aside, Hook Up also took time to explore the poignant elements of relationships however, these numbers were the ones that tended to slip into the realm of clichés. The final song in particular, although musically powerful and cleverly crafted, was leaning towards the schmaltzy end of the spectrum. In spite of this, for majority of the cabaret the piece was musically strong. As composers of the show, Hedger and Nicholson created catchy tunes and moving ballads with lyrics that touched on themes that any mature audience could relate to.

The relatability of the subject mater that was explored with wit and charismatic performances makes this a truly engaging cabaret. With the bulk of its material being cleverly constructed and carried by a genuinely talented cast, it’s no wonder this piece received the Short+Sweet Cabaret Festival Fringe Development Award in 2013. After all, when the bows roll around and you find yourself disappointed that the performance is over, it’s a clear indicator that you’ve had a good time!

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