Mime has been quiet for a while (see what I did there?) but now it’s back for a new generation in the shape of Fergus Aitken’s Mr Fungus. Parents and even grandparents with fond memories of this talented performer have been heard exclaiming, “Oh wow, is he still around?” which may account for the whole season being ‘sold out’ (albeit under ‘reduced capacity’ while Level Two restrictions apply).  

Developed by Fergus with director Fraser Hooper, the show starts with a radio advertisement (voiced by Kim Potter) for the show at Circa which reminds Mr Fungus – enjoying his morning coffee at home, behind his front windows and doors – that he has to go and do this thing. But not before he cleans specks of dirt off his windows: cue classic window cleaning gags.  

Also classic is the sudden burst of Wellington wind and rain that provokes a manifestation of unseen forces that have this fully grown man at their mercy. The sound design, by Fergus and Fraser, bring the weather and traffic into the space as well as accompanying the varied routines with an eclectic range of music from jazz through opera, to climax with Carl Orff’s ‘Carmina Burana’ cantata.

Waiting for the bus is its own routine, then the actual bus ride reveals a diverse collection of passengers as well as the bus driver. A pause to read a newspaper brings ever-increasing surprises. A couple of bananas meet for a chat … All this before Mr Fungus arrives at the ‘Stage Door’. His name appears in lights above a red curtain and the show proper begins.

His dexterity with a small silver suitcase that seems to have a mind of its own proves Fergus is an extremely accomplished mime. His juggling skills with balls, his hat and a walking stick are also impressive. As for the way he uses a short bit of rope lodged in mid air to raise himself right off the ground …!

But it’s the way Mr F offsets his desire for approval and applause with a slightly clumsy vulnerability when things don’t quite come off that draws us closer to him. Fortunately his Technical Director, Mike Ainsworth, is on hand to assist where needed. And there’s a bit of something going on with the lighting (and sound) operator, Jack Sutton, which maybe could be developed some more.

Long balloons in many colours take centre stage for the finale, and they’re used in some unpredictable ways to bring the show to a breath-taking end. My 9-year-old companion sums it up well: funny and charming. 

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