Just for Laughs 2014 – Paul F. Tompkins & Friends Real and Imagined

Paul F. Tompkins has offered up a number of different types of performances at Just for Laughs over the years, from a one-man show about his life and career to more traditional stand-up spots. For this year’s edition, Tompkins spearheaded the aptly-titled Paul F. Tompkins & Friends Real and Imagined at the intimate Mainline Theatre from July 21-26. Each show included a rotating cast of guests, with Tompkins performing as both himself, as well as a variety of celebrity impressions.

The Saturday edition of the show featured guests Cameron Esposito, Mark Little and Fortune Feimster. Toronto’s Mark Little was the true discovery of the night, beginning his set with a prolonged bit gently mocking the Just for Laughs Gags show, with the endless reaction shots being taken to a ludicrous extreme. He then segued into the strange choice for boy bands to always include a creepy older man in the line-up, and ended with a hilariously bizarre bit that involved fist-bumping nearly the entire crowd, combined with a great deal of singing.

Host Paul F. Tompkins, dressed to the nines in a creme-coloured suit, began with a story involving the dress code at the Magic Castle, a private club in Los Angeles for magicians and magic aficionados. Tompkins then “left” for the night, and re-appeared between guests as both Alan Thicke and Andrew Lloyd Webber. Decked out in a red track jacket emblazoned with “Canada” across the back, “Alan Thicke” riled up the crowd with his unsanctioned attempt to create a Growing Pains tribute at Just for Laughs, while defending his son Robin for his recent marital issues.

“Andrew Lloyd Webber” took the stage dressed in a crown and ceremonial cape, addressing the lowly minions in the crowd with his refined Royal speak. He explained the need to update his musicals to include rap music, a genre he has been a fan of from Debbie Harry through to Macklemore. He then rapped his way through a tune from Jesus Christ Superstar, which completely floored the crowd. You have never truly lived until you have witnessed Paul F. Tompkins as Andrew Lloyd Webber, rapping about Jesus’ crucifixion.

At just an hour, the show was a bit short, but the sheer talent of Paul F. Tompkins and the lunacy of Mark Little made this one of the most memorable shows of the festival.