WHEN did the fun go out of politics? It seems that one day in the mid-90s Britain woke up to a world of black and white, middle of the road Blairites in sharp suits with slick slogans and distinct lack of joie de vivre.
Colourful politicians of the ilk of George Galloway, John Prescott and Tommy Sheridan have become a rare phenomenon (Lembit Opik being one of them), replaced by earnest young men Twittering the party line.
Striving to resurrect a little of that old school political parody at Theatr Hafren on Friday, March 5, is The Joy Of Politics.
A two-man show based on the discovery of the diary of a wet young Westminster MP by the name of William Wilberforce, the play takes the form of a series of sketches and re-enactments from the politician’s journal.
“It is a great time to be doing this show as there is always something silly in the national newspaper about party leaders or the election. The shows can often write themselves,” said Ciaran Murtagh, one of the performers.
“Every show is completely different and up to date too because, while a lot of it is pre-writtten, we have sections we write on the morning of each show by going through the newspapers.
“We have also introduced a look at the local papers, so the people at Theatr Hafren can expect a few jokes about the Welsh Assembly Government and the colourful Lembit Opik.
“Let’s just hope Lembit marries a celebrity before our show arrives in Newtown. If he got it together with Jordan that would be great.
“He has a very odd way about him but he is always ripe for fun.”
The team behind Professor Bumms Story Machine, The Joy of Wine and I, Lear return with this new show, which they describe as an “evening of lies, damn lies and silly whigs”.
Ciaran Murtagh added: “Comedy about politics, while often funny, sometime leaves a nasty taste in your mouth. “However, we try to embrace the sillier side of politics and the lighter issues.
“There is a place for the Franky Boyle type stuff but there is also a place for what we do, looking at the ridiculous element of politics.”
If you love Yes Minister, The New Statesman and The Now Show, you'll love The Joy of Politics – an irreverent romp through the corridors of power and the cul-de-sacs of Quango.
From the Magna Carta to this morning’s headlines they pledge to deliver a manifesto of mirth that’s guaranteed to bring down the house, updated daily with topical jokes and satirical sketches – so order your tickets today!
The Joy of Politics is at the Theatr Hafren, Newtown, on Friday March 5 at 7.45pm. Tickets cost £10. Contact the box office on 01686 625007 or visit the website www.theatrhafren.com