Even a cursory glance at Mat Ricardo’s online presence reveals his outstanding popularity. It is hard to find an assessment of his work that dares to label it anywhere near middling, let alone sub-par. And this review will be no different (sorry, anyone baying for a fall-from-grace story). Showman is really rather excellent. It may not be for everyone, but I’d wager that it comes close.
The Old Joint Stock is currently hosting the inaugural Birmingham Cabaret Festival and Ricardo’s show comes roughly at the halfway point of the series. The intimate theatre space lends itself to small acts of wonder. I would heartily recommend checking out any of the other cabaret acts, should this be any indication of their quality.
Ricardo’s is a show that is rare in its makeup and execution, made all the more appealing by its scarcity. How many jugglers successfully draw in the crowds solo? How many jugglers have appeared on The Jonathon Ross Show? Furthermore, how many jugglers are rock stars? Ricardo’s website motto: “Fast hands. Smart mouth. Nice suit.” He has a touch of rock star about him, by way of Bublé, by way of Rastelli, via Variety and Vaudeville. He looks like one of the dapper leading men of BBC’s Hustle.
Ricardo is currently touring the UK with his one-man show. One is hard pressed to find fault in it. While the consummate professional and a mesmeric, accomplished performer, Ricardo still finds time to infuse his performance with warmth, humour and strength of character. The Hustle comparison may be unfair. As he says himself, his art is not magic or con artistry. The brilliance of the act lies in its reality, its truth, his masterful skill.
Albeit with more laughs and knives, this is a history lesson, too. Ricardo vacillates between veneration and irreverence, deftly establishing his devotion to his art, while maintaining a sense of humour. His only fake-out stuns the audience and makes them roar with anxious laughter, but also has resonance beyond its moment.
“Fast hands. Smart mouth. Nice suit,” indeed. ★★★★★ Will Amott 17/05/15
