Mischief Theatre: The Comedy Genius Saving Our Sanity
In the bustling chaos of our everyday lives, finding moments of pure joy can be a rare and treasured experience. Enter Mischief Theatre, the ingenious comedy troupe that has become a lifesaver for my family. As stand-up comics, my husband and I are notoriously tough audiences. We rarely laugh at anyone’s work, partly because it’s an unwritten rule in our profession: no comic should laugh at their own routine. After all, no audience wants to see the performer cracking up at their jokes. Yet, Mischief Theatre has managed to break through our jaded exteriors, making us laugh out loud and often.
The Shows That Make Us ROFL
Whether it’s their downright genius show, The Goes Wrong Show (which the BBC recently canceled — a decision that is nothing short of a travesty — more on this later), Peter Pan Goes Wrong, or the improvisational brilliance of Mischief Movie Night Madness, where the troupe presents a completely improvised show based on audience suggestions, we have become devoted addicts to this exceptionally talented group.
Our favorite, The Goes Wrong Show, is a series that takes the concept of “everything that can go wrong will go wrong” to hysterical new heights. Each episode presents a different play within a play, with the actors valiantly trying to perform despite an onslaught of disasters. From collapsing sets to misdelivered lines, the chaos is meticulously crafted for maximum comedic impact.
In Peter Pan Goes Wrong, the Mischief Theatre team tackles the classic story of Peter Pan with their signature blend of physical comedy and witty dialogue. Watching this performance is like witnessing a masterclass in comedic timing and slapstick humor. It’s a show that leaves you gasping for breath between laughs, marveling at how these performers can keep straight faces amid the chaos.
Mischief Movie Night Madness is another gem, where the audience can dictate the plot, genre, and even the show’s characters. This completely improvised performance showcases the troupe’s quick wit and unparalleled creativity, making each show a unique and unforgettable experience. It’s like a live-action version of “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” but with even more absurdity and hilarity.
A Family Affair with Misguided Cues and Missed Cues
Our obsession with The Goes Wrong Show goes beyond casual viewership. We have watched every episode multiple times, reveling in the slapstick comedy and the brilliantly orchestrated mishaps that the Mischief Theatre Company brings to life. Each rewatch rewards us with missed jokes and unnoticed gags — a testament to the show’s layered humor and complexity.
On a personal note, my oldest son, who is neurodivergent, tends not to join us when we watch a movie or a show. However, when we rewatch any of these episodes, he runs right in and sits down to join us for the entire show, which is no small accomplishment. His favorite episode is 90 Degrees (which you can watch right now on Amazon Prime), and he often walks around the house saying, “No… the beeeeear…” If you watch the episode, you’ll understand and laugh just as hard as we do.
Even more miraculous was last week when we took the whole family to see The Play That Goes Wrong at the New World Stages. Both of my sons — one neurotypical overactive nine-year-old and the other neurodivergent child who would rather be playing with his iPad — sat enthralled and attentive. This show, a side-splitting depiction of a play within a play that spirals into calamity, held their attention from start to finish. Seeing our boys so engaged and entertained was nothing short of miraculous.
The Need for Mischief Theatre’s Global Expansion
Returning to The Goes Wrong Show, I can’t help but wonder if Amazon Prime can save the show. The world NEEDS Mischief Theatre and its humor. Any group that can make two jaded New York Comics laugh and engage all ages deserves a bigger platform. Their blend of slapstick, wit, and sheer absurdity is a refreshing antidote to the stresses of modern life. We need more Mischief Theatre not just in the UK but across the globe, and especially more of their work in the United States.
An Open Letter To Amazon Prime — Our Laughter is in Your Hands
Dear Amazon, as a family that thrives on comedy and collective joy, we’ve found a rare gem that glues us to the couch with laughter and anticipation. The Goes Wrong Show by Mischief Theater isn’t just a show for us — it’s a bonding ritual, an uproarious journey that we’ve embarked on together, laughing until our sides hurt. It’s the rare unicorn in our household: a show that everyone, from the youngest to the oldest, wholeheartedly agrees on.
We were recently disheartened to learn that the BBC canceled “The Goes Wrong Show.” We believe this to be a colossal misstep. Amazon, here lies your golden opportunity to rescue this jewel of jest from the clutches of cancellation. Imagine the joy and subscription clicks from humor-starved viewers like us, eagerly awaiting more chaotic adventures.
Amazon, we implore you, don’t let this be the end. The potential for more seasons, episodes, and laughter is immense. Please think of families like ours who cherish these moments of shared laughter. By investing in more “The Goes Wrong Show,” you’re not just investing in a series; you’re investing in family time, in laughter, and in the art of comedy that goes wonderfully wrong.
In conclusion, Amazon, please bring back “The Goes Wrong Show.” Our family nights, belly laughs, and love for theatre-gone-awry depend on it. Let’s make ‘going wrong’ go right once more.
A Personal Thank You to the Mischief Makers
I also want to take a moment to thank the incredible talents behind Mischief Theatre: Henry Shields, Bryony Corrigan, Charlie Russell, Henry Lewis, Jonathan Sayer, Nancy Zamit, Dave Hearn, Greg Tannahill, Chris Leask, and Ellie Morris.
Your incomparable talent has brought immense joy to our household. This group can sing, dance (mostly), perform any form of physical comedy, pull off any accent, and seamlessly fit into any genre, be it period drama, Shakespeare, holiday themes, and more. You have created a unique form of entertainment that transcends boundaries and brings people together in laughter.
And for the record, my family and I would pay handsomely to watch Henry Lewis do pretty much anything. Just saying.
Spread the Word: Mischief Theatre is a Must-Watch
So, if you haven’t yet experienced the comedic brilliance of Mischief Theatre, do yourself a favor and dive into their world. Whether it’s watching The Goes Wrong Show on Amazon Prime, catching a live performance of The Play That Goes Wrong, or enjoying the unpredictable hilarity of Mischief Movie Night Madness, you are in for a treat.
Let’s bring more Mischief Theatre to the United States and spread the laughter far and wide. Trust me, your funny bone will thank you.
