Josh Glanc’s Manfül – Comedy Festival Review by Chris Swan
Are you a totally dweeb bag? Are you sick of walking down the street and getting the snot beat out of you by bullies? Then you need Manfül.
Comedian Josh Glanc’s latest show is presented in the form of an information seminar hosted by “real man” Dicky Rosenthal. Dicky has managed to transform himself from a musical theatre-loving “Jewish dweeb bag” to the ripped “beefcake” he is today with the help of Manfül, a protein supplement that may contain just a hint of urine. You’re along for the ride as Dicky takes you through his transformation, telling of the hardships and the struggles he underwent to become a “real man” and teaches you how you can become one too.
With Manfül Josh Glanc has created something special. What begins as a mock seminar slowly evolves into a deep character study exploring the insecurities of the modern man, and it’s bloody hilarious. Utilising everything at his disposal from seductive dance moves, nostalgic songs, audience participation and even a blood pack or two, Glanc’s astounding performance as Dicky is simultaneously cringe-worthy and incredibly endearing. While never straying too far from the comedic path he manages to infuse the show, and Dicky himself, with enough heart for the audience to genuinely fall for this truly weird guy. By the time the show reaches its finale you may not be invested in Manfül the product but you will be in Dicky and his emotional struggles, as strange as they may be.
Sometimes confronting and often awkward, Josh Glanc’s Manfül weaves an incredibly entertaining and endearing story of one man learning to overcome his insecurities, his past and a dreaded chicken wrap. Littered with a tonne of absurdist moments, physical comedy and a loveable character, Manful is a show that will leave your sides hurting from laughter and tears streaming down your face. Whether you’re a little “dweeb bag” or a “real man”, Manfül will be one of the weirdest, funniest and most engaging shows you’re likely to see at this year’s comedy festival. An absolute must see.
By Chris Swan.
