In The Yeti, comedy veteran Tony Martin – a hapless crazy-character-magnet – recalls a mind-boggling tale of domestic lunacy. It’s a story taken from Martin’s book Lolly Scramble, transformed into a funny and memorable monologue fit for anyone craving light-entertainment.
Martin is the level-headed voice of reason, lifting the lid on an extraordinary boarding house existence. Subject to the quirks and eccentricities of German landlords Gunter and Violet, as well as their rebellious lodger Boyle, Martin is constantly at odds with his environment. Thereinlies the hilarity: the tale almost always sees Martin one step behind in a bewildering world of secrets, repeated catchphrases and highly-questionable inventions. The juxtaposition of Martin’s normality with the abnormality of his setting accounts for The Yeti’s many laughs.
Martin’s expert characterisation seems to hint at some affection for the era. He’s worked hard to ensure each character has their own definitive voice and profile, lovingly based on his recollection of events. Naturally, Martin’s flavoursome portrayals tend to offer up hints that transcend those hidden within the original text, each explosive with information. Those already familiar with The Yeti as it features in Lolly Scramble will find that the show actually consolidates impressions of the Ponsonby Road estate. Perhaps the most joyous aspect of The Yeti resides in experiencing the tale exactly as it was intended. The story has a selection of particularly brilliant lines, their magnificence enriched when performed by the writer himself.
Overall, The Yeti succeeds as a light comedy alternative and suggests an audiobook of Martin’s Lolly Scramble could be something very special indeed.
BY JO ROBIN
