Lano & Woodley – The Island

The show opens with a deliberately ambiguous scene featuring Colin Lane seemingly about to hang for the murder of Frank Woodley. This stark and dramatic introduction immediately grabs the audience's attention and sets a darkly comedic tone. It serves as a narrative hook, prompting viewers to question how these two characters arrived at such a predicament, thereby drawing them into the unfolding story of their ill-fated holiday.

Beyond the surface-level hilarity of two blokes struggling to survive, 'The Island' subtly explores themes of resilience and the absurdities of human behaviour when pushed to extremes. The constant bickering and reliance on each other, even amidst their disagreements, highlights the complex nature of partnership. It’s a testament to their comedic chemistry that even in dire circumstances, their dynamic remains the core of the entertainment.

While Lano & Woodley are known for their broad appeal, the specific tone and humour of 'The Island' might lean towards an older audience. The show's premise involves a murder plot, albeit a comedic one, and the survival scenarios could be intense for very young children. It's generally best suited for those familiar with and appreciative of their particular brand of sophisticated silliness and observational comedy.

Fans of Lano & Woodley will recognise their signature brand of physical comedy and witty banter. The premise of being marooned on an island provides ample opportunity for their farcical routines and the dynamic of their characters clashing under pressure. Expect a journey filled with exaggerated reactions, slapstick situations, and the enduring, albeit often argumentative, friendship between Colin and Frank as they navigate their unlikely survival quest.

This particular stage production of Lano & Woodley – The Island was captured live during its Brisbane theatrical season. The filming took place in August 2004 at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre. This setting allowed audiences to experience the show as it was performed for a live theatre crowd, preserving the energy and interaction typical of a Lano & Woodley stage event.

The show centres on a disastrous holiday to Hawaii that leaves the beloved comedic duo, Colin and Frank, stranded on a deserted tropical island. What begins as an ill-fated trip quickly devolves into a hilarious struggle for survival. The narrative cleverly frames their predicament with an opening scene hinting at a grim fate, adding an intriguing layer to their subsequent comical escapades as they battle the elements and each other.