Slapstick, sophisticated satire

Press, 22 December 1986, Page 23

Slapstick, sophisticated satire

Three exceptional young entertainers form a brand new partnership in a 8.8. C comedy series, “Three of a Kind,” which begins tonight at 8.30 on One.

Tracey Ullman, David Copperfield and Lenny Henry are the talented trio whose shows are a mix of gags, sketches, impersonations, song and dance, ranging from basic slapstick to a more intellectual brand of satire.

Each programme also features a musical guest spot. Singers are Toni Basil, Amii Stewart and Lezlee Carling, and, in the final show, the guitarist, Hank Marvin, of “The Shadows.” The three stars of the show are not so much “three of a kind” as three distinct individuals who happen to work well together. Lenny Henry is an up-and-coming black entertainer with a talent

for wicked impersonations.

Tracy Ullman is an established stage actor who does straight acting as well as comedy. Ullman will also be appearing on Christmas Day when she stars as the heroine in “The Visitors” which screens in the afternoon.

Ullman also starred with Meryl Streep and Sir John Gielgud in the recently released movie, “Plenty.”

It was her work in “Three of a Kind” that provided her with recognition in England five years ago, particularly her impressions — ranging from Sloane Rangers and social workers to charwomen and pop stars.

David Copperfield is an all-round entertainer who came through the northern club circuit like many of Britain’s top variety artists.