The interview, though interesting, could have done with a bit more pep but just enough was provided by the three or four video interludes when we watched carefully selected visual comedy highlights of Palin’s (much) younger years; clips from Do Not Adjust Your Set, Monty Python and A Fish Called Wanda (amongst many others) provoking gales of laughter throughout Colston Hall. A short interval follows and we are soon invited back in to watch a screening of Buster Keaton’s classic 1924 silent comedy, The Navigator – slapstick comedy at it’s finest – and as an extra special treat, the film is given a full band accompaniment by the European Silent Screen Virtuoso featuring piano, drums, double bass, clarinet and a certain Dick Williams on cornet (yes, he of Who Framed Roger Rabbit? fame). Their playing is flawless and provides the perfect soundtrack as Keaton battles swordfish, cannibals and stumbles his way through many other adventures on an ocean liner lost at sea. The night was put together very slickly and provided the perfect opening event to Bristol’s 6th Festival of Slapstick. There are plenty of other events on throughout the week so get onto the website and get laughing! www.slapstick.org.uk Matt Whittle
33