The Billy Willy Show is on the road again. Based in Friendly, West Virginia, Billy Willy is currently sharing his stories, music and comedy with Toronto audiences.

The play is a one man show. The audience is in the studio with Billy as he hosts his radio show. Billy tells stories from his past, as only he can. He tells us of his previous loves and failed marriages. Somehow he makes it all sound funny. The stories are tragic and hilarious at the same time.

 

Billed as “America’s least favorite country and western superstar”, Billy treats us to a few song samples and a bizarre speech by John Wayne. He uses a remanufactured FAX machine to play the songs, requests and other sound effects. It is fun to watch and one has to admire Billy’s technical skills.

If Billy Willy is a character, his acting is incredible. It reminded me of Andy Kaufman becoming a character instead of “just” playing it.

Billy Willy has won awards across America and is truly one of a kind. I got the impression that the audience didn’t know what to make of the show. It might make you scratch your head, and it will probably make you laugh. You might even scratch your head and rub your belly at the same time!

I enjoyed this Willy in Canada a lot more than the newlywed Willy from England in Canada.
Details:
The Billy Willy Show is playing at The Randolph Center for the Arts in The Solo Room, located at 736 Bathurst Street.

Performances:

Thursday, July 07, 6:00pm,
Friday, July 08, 4:45pm,
Saturday, July 09, 10:15pm,
Sunday, July 10, 2:45pm,
Tuesday, July 12, 8:30pm,
Wednesday, July 13, 6:30pm,
Friday, July 15, 10:30pm
Saturday, July 16, 8:00pm.

Tickets: Advanced tickets can be purchased for $11 online at www.fringetoronto.com, or by telephone at (416) 966 1062, or at the door before show time for $10.