Swindon’s Wyvern Theatre is set to host a highly anticipated event. Comedy stalwarts Steve Punt and Hugh Dennis are embarking on their first tour in over a decade, promising audiences an evening filled with laughter and nostalgia.
The tour, intriguingly named “We Are Not A Robot,” marks a significant moment as it follows the conclusion of their long-running Radio 4 programme, The Now Show.
A Decade Later: Why Now?
The decision to tour now stemmed from a combination of postponed plans due to the pandemic and the impending conclusion of their 25-year stint on The Now Show. “It seemed like a perfect confluence of things,” Steve Punt explained, highlighting the importance of seizing the moment to reconnect with live audiences and step away from the constraints of broadcast schedules.
Tour Title’s Tech Touch
Explaining the choice of their tour’s title, Punt highlighted the duo’s longstanding interest in the interplay between society and technology, a recurrent theme in their radio show. “It’s a funny title; I just like the idea of it,” he noted, encapsulating their perspective on our daily interactions with technology through a comedic lens.
A Nostalgic Yet Fresh Approach
While the show promises to retain the flavour of The Now Show, it will not be a mere extension. The duo plans to expand and theatricalise some of their well-received sketches and ideas. Audiences can also expect to revisit some beloved characters from their television days, such as Mr. Strange and the Minister, bringing a mix of nostalgia and fresh content to the stage.
Creative Synergies and Future Endeavours
When asked about their working dynamics and any disagreements, Punt described their interactions as “polite, well-thought-out creative discussions,” underscoring the deep trust that underpins their successful partnership. Looking ahead, they revealed plans for a new series titled “Routemasters,” set to explore entertaining links between diverse topics, from beer to eternity.
Special Appearances and Personal Time
Hugh Dennis touched on his brief but memorable stint in the James Bond film “No Time To Die,” providing a humorous anecdote about his preparation for his role. Offstage, the duo plans to indulge in some uniquely British day-out activities between shows, from visiting Barometer World to exploring local geographies, courtesy of Dennis’s geography background.
As the We Are Not A Robot tour gears up to bring its unique blend of humour and reflection to Swindon, fans old and new are in for a treat that promises more than just laughs but a poignant look at life through the comedic lens of two of Britain’s beloved performers.
Steve Punt and Hugh Dennis will be at the Wyvern Theatre on Sunday 26th May 2024 at 7.30pm – tickets are available online.
