By Jessica Taurins
It isn’t easy to review a comedian like David Correos.
If you’ve only seen him on Taskmaster NZ, you might know him as boisterous, silly, and a bit foolish (in the nicest way possible).
On the other hand, if you’ve only been exposed to clips of his standup on his Instagram, you may know him as a maniac who yells at the audience in his underwear, occasionally holding a toy gun. (It’s very important you understand – the gun is just a toy!!)
For me, I think David Correos is my favourite comedian right now, and I would say that even if he hadn’t brandished a toy gun at me.
It would be nice to say Correos toes the fine line between comedy and striking fear into the hearts of his crowd, but when you see him live you realise he doesn’t toe any lines at all, he scuffs his bare feet through the lines and runs directly at you like a shirtless Terminator, throwing comedy into your ears from all angles.
And honestly, that’s how I like it.
Correos has an incredible grasp on absurdism and the unexpected. It feels like he plays with the rules of reality while he performs, or at least the rules of public decorum. Touching My Active Mind is not just a deep dive into Correos’ mind, but his heart and soul as well, where all his inner thoughts are allowed to parade across his little stage.
When Correos is on stage, it’s easy to become drawn into his world, but only the bravest audience members will make it out the other side. Then again, having seen him multiple times, it is clear that while his shows seem scattered and wacky, the work done pre-show to ensure audience comfort and safety is above and beyond anything done by other performers.
Correos is so in touch with what his audience wants – snacks, mostly, and to yell at him – but while some activities seem like they could cross a line, he cleverly manipulates our expectations to ensure we only feel in danger but never will be.
Correos is both saint and sinner, priest and profane, yanking his crowds along for the ride. If you like costume changes, sleight of hand, and exploding potatoes, Touching My Active Mind is the show for you.
Otherwise, I guess if you’re BORING, stay home.
