Stamptown

What do ghost hunters, gangster rap, hula hoop, and comedy have in common? If you guessed nothing, you clearly have not been to Stamptown. This popular five-time New York Times comedy pick combines acts from around the world to form one wild and unique experience. I got to see the first night in Wellington as part of the NZ International Comedy Festival, and when I tell you this show has it all, I mean it.

It all kicks off with an impressive rollerblade performance (Dylan Woodley), which quickly develops into a full-blown dance party. It’s an unexpected start and certainly won’t be the last time I’ll be surprised tonight. The show continues with Stamptown’s host and creator Zach Zucker, whose manic performance is underlined by a variety of sound effects that are equally funny and irritating. Be it kangaroo calls, rap music, or gunshots, Zucker hilariously adapts and improvises around whatever noise he is given.

Throughout the night, various artists show up on stage, mostly making it up as they go. There is no plot or plan, only pure chaos. Classical stand-up comedy, fire breathing, and pantomime striptease all come together in what is probably the craziest, weirdest, and most unhinged show I’ve ever seen. You truly cannot anticipate what’s coming next. However, this unpredictability is also Stamptown’s biggest strength, and I can’t help but laugh at the outrageous things unfolding before my eyes. The chaos also makes me understand the extensive trigger warnings at the entrance, as nudity, fire, and flashing lights don’t just appear; they happen all at once.

Judging by the reviews, Stamptown is something you will either love or hate. Either way, you will never forget it. Whether it is a circus, a comedy show, or performance art, I am still unsure. Is it, at times, obscene and insulting? Yes. Does it leave me dazed and confused about what I have just witnessed? Yes. Would I go again? Absolutely.