Richards’ eccentric performance approaches the history with his larger than life, leather-clad father George. The sketch stems from his fondest, often embarrassing memories growing up of his dad imposing a grand slam dream upon him. “Dad loves the limelight,” he laughs.
Everyone knew the Polish man surveying the courts and putting in his two cents on any tennis-related technique known to an amateur coach. Richards even interviewed the man himself for some authentic Polish Tennis Dad quirks – an overzealous man with a good heart underneath it all.
With a man like this egging him on, a mousy little Richards’ tennis career peaked as Under 12 champion of Maribyrnong Tennis Club. So what happens to the father-son duo after the realisation Willem would not be in the Tennis Hall Of Fame alongside Federer and Nadal? As the young Willem moves into adulthood leaving his tennis dreams behind, the sketch observes how their relationship shifts – with a warming promise that everything will be alright. It becomes an anecdote of how an overbearing Polish Tennis Dad accepts to let go. Amongst the absurdity in his stand-up comedy, Richards tells a story that anyone can relate to.
His performance includes some audience interaction to keep everyone involved in the story. If you’re lucky, Willem or another boisterous characters will invite you on stage to participate in a little improvisation. No two performances will be the same, between hardcore tennis drills and outlandish characters like Spanish Ken and Magic Mystic.
Audiences will enjoy the sincerity of the father-son storyline that is layered between the quirky characterisation and storymaking. It’s a relatable relationship, one many people can identify with, told brilliantly through comedy. Polish Tennis Dad promises a strong set that celebrates exuberant fathers who really just love their children.
BY ASHEDA WEEKES
Venue: Tuxedo Cat – The Alley Cat
Dates: September 22 – October 1 (bar September 28)
Times: 8.30pm
Tickets: $12.50 – $18
