Margot Tanjutco in Vanity Fair Enough

By Hooi Khaw 

Margot Tanjutco will blow you away with her performance in Vanity Fair Enough. The execution and comedic timing are flawless, and the writing is sharply funny.

It is difficult to describe this show because it is layered, and cleverly crafted. It is the sum of smaller units of song, sketch and stand up that combine to make a truly absorbing show. It is pure entertainment. It is biting satire. It is surreal. It is joyous, and hysterical, and light-hearted in the silliest way possible. It is fiercely intelligent writing that leaves your mouth agape. It is a naturally charismatic performer with laser precision on the stage.

The writing is excellent, but what takes it to the next level is Tanjutco’s performance chops. Her character work is delightful, and perfectly highlights the discrepancies between the beliefs and behaviours of people living in the consumer culture. These characters are performed with Tanjutco’s innate comedic instincts, and she sings and dances her way through these hilarious and absurd contrasts that feel all too relatable.

The cleverness of this show is in what she chooses to unpack, and how she unpacks it. Tanjutco doesn’t just go for obvious marks, in the usual way. Vanity Fair Enough gives you fresh takes on characters engaging with consumption, and over-consumption. As the show progresses, we are presented with a wide range of varying perspectives on these topical issues, which will leave you laughing for days after.

The music is also excellent, and again Tanjutco raises the bar with Hamilton-esque songs that embody insightful concepts, perfectly sculpted around sick beats. The songs play to existing tropes that we see in song writing, and the lyrics are punchy and smart. There are moments half way through a song or stanza, where you find yourself in utter awe as she nimbly surprises you with an unexpected, yet completely apt rhyme, or analogy, or idea. Needless to say, her delivery is exceptional.

There was nothing to fault in Vanity Fair Enough – it is a perfectly polished performance piece, ready to consume. Vanity Fair Enough is a must-see for this comedy festival, and if this review convinces you to watch it, then (vanity) fair enough.

Margot Tanjutco performs Vanity Fair Enough at The Coopers Malthouse.
See website for Details –
https://www.comedyfestival.com.au/2019/shows/vanity-fair-enough