Standup chameleon visiting us

One of the most popular standup comedians in show business is set to return to New Zealand this week for two performances this month as a part of the New Zealand International Comedy Festival (April 27 to May 20) 2012.

Anil Desai, will present his brand new show, ‘Night at the Movies’ at the Whiteira Performing Arts Centre in Wellington on May 5 and at Q Theatre Loft on May 8.

As well as a ‘master impressionist’ in UK, he was a rage at the New Zealand International Comedy Festival held last year.

Anil would take the audience on a ‘star-studded tour of imagination’ during his performance.

Among those featured would be a host of Hollywood stars, live movie trailers, slick standup and hilarious stories. Described as a ‘possessed, schizophrenic tour-de-force,’ Anil is a veteran of the world’s great festivals.

His warm affability and pinpoint impressions make him a sought-after performer in UK, Europe and South Asia.

Anil has been a regular performer at the Edinburgh Fringe for the past 15 years including a show that featured a record-breaking 52 impressions in five minutes.

Beginning his career with the award-winning BBC sketch show series ‘Goodness Gracious Me,’ he has been on the entertainment circuit, including comedy, cabaret, variety and burlesque. He was the co-host of the highly popular late night show ‘Spank!’

The Edinburgh Evening News described him as, “Not just clever, but utterly hilarious and one to watch,” while the Fest said, “Anil is impressive and brilliant.”

Tarun Mohanbhai is a comedian, actor, writer and director. He owns ‘That Indian Guy,’ which has produced several comedies. He is a regular performer at the New Zealand International Comedy Festival. He will perform in his new play, ‘Joke in the Box’ at the Cavern Club in Wellington from May 9 to 12 and at the Q Theatre in Auckland from May 15 to 19, 2012.