‘Vocal Visions’

Press, 10 March 1987, Page 4

‘Vocal Visions’

“Vocal Visions,” starring George Smilovici and Michael Winslow at the Town Hall Auditorium, Monday, March 9. Reviewed by Elody Rathgen. A disarming and effective comedian he may be, but George “I’m-so-tuff” Smilovici is also sexist < and frequently tasteless in his choice of jokes, particularly those aimed at homosexuals. In his view it seems women are good only for sex, cooking, beating, and their favourite activities seems to be fighting, kicking/and scratching eachy

other — a male fantasy of the most limited and unoriginal order. No doubt Smilovici is a skilled manipulator of audiences and has a range of talents which are displayed in his series of impersonations. Certainly the predominately youthful audience appreciated these skills and responded enthusiastically to the humour. The other half of the evening’s programme was by Michael Winslow who is an extremely energetic performer. He dominated the stage with his antics and filled

the auditorium with a range of amazing sounds. Impressions of aeroplanes and early morning “sanitation technicians” at work were very convincing. His ability to combine music and dog noises also impressed during the “Welcome Home” routine. A long movie sketch seemed ill-planned and repetitive. Winslow’s energy became too frenzied and the direction of this part of the programme was lost. The audience obviously appreciated the spontaneous work of the performed