Kumar Guilty proved to be an afternoon filled with laughter and humour. Held at the Sands Theatre, Marina Bay Sands, this unique show challenged audience members to confront their guilty secrets and desires while interacting with the comedic legend himself.
Who is Kumar?
Kumar, whose full name is Kumarason Chinnadurai, is a well-known and highly regarded comedian and performer from Singapore. With over three decades of experience, Kumar has left an indelible mark on the local entertainment scene.
Kumar is recognised for his witty and irreverent style of comedy, often challenging societal norms, breaking stereotypes, and discussing taboo topics. He is also known for his advocacy of LGBTQ+ rights and inclusivity, using his platform to promote understanding and acceptance. His performances are a perfect blend of laughter, social commentary, and his remarkable ability to connect with the audience.
Kumar Guilty at Sands Theatre, Marina Bay Sands
When I took my seat, I noticed the cleverly designed fans on each chair, with “Guilty” on one side and “Not Guilty” on the other. I had a suspicion that these fans would play a role in Kumar’s interaction with the audience during the show, and my assumption proved to be correct.
As someone who hadn’t attended any of Kumar’s shows before, I was surprised when the show opened with a dynamic showcase by his team of drag queens. There were also performances before intermission as well as when the show was about to end. These were lip-syncing acts, set to popular hits like Cell Block Tango and Oops! I Did It Again by Britney Spears. The costumes and choreography elevated the overall experience.
Throughout the performance, Kumar’s observational comedy remained fresh and relevant. He effortlessly transitioned from humorous jabs at guilt-tripping mothers to engaging discussions on politics, current affairs, and his trademark exploration of taboo topics like sex and masturbation. His fearlessness in tackling these subjects head-on while maintaining the audience’s laughter showcased his comedic genius.
One aspect that stood out to me was Kumar’s adaptability. During interactive sessions with the audience, he skillfully handled unexpected responses, turning unpredictable moments into comedic gold. This ability to think on his feet and make everyone feel at ease added an extra layer of enjoyment to the show.
Furthermore, Kumar’s skill in playfully shaming latecomers, pausing his routine to address them with humorous remarks, was hilarious. If someone arrived late to the show, he would pause his comedy bit, address the latecomer with humorous remarks, and resume where he left off.
While Kumar’s comedic brilliance shone throughout the performance, there were also touching moments where he shed his comedic role and shared a glimpse of his raw, tender side. His tribute to his recently departed dog, Oreo, revealed his raw and tender side. It was a poignant reminder of Kumar’s growth as a performer and his willingness to connect with his fans on a more personal level.
Verdict
Kumar’s passion for comedy and dedication to his craft were evident throughout the show, leaving no doubt that he will continue to grace the stage for as long as there are people who want to watch him.
However, as an avid admirer of his sharp wit and humorous storytelling, I would have preferred a greater emphasis on his comedic genius rather than the lip-syncing acts. While the performances by Kumar’s team of drag queens were visually stunning and well-executed, I felt that they occasionally overshadowed the comedic aspect of the show. Perhaps a more cohesive integration of these performances with the comedy would have enhanced the overall experience.
Kumar Guilty is a comedy experience not to be missed. In a world filled with stress and worry, Kumar Guilty serves as an important reminder of the power of laughter and its ability to bring relief, help us laugh at ourselves, and find moments of relaxation.
Kumar Guilty tours in Singapore till 23 July 2023.
Address / Contact Information
+65 6688 8826Sands Theatre
Marina Bay Sands Singapore
4 Bayfront Avenue B1
Singapore 018973
