Elf Lyons, an acclaimed comedian known for her adventurous and imaginative approach to performance, will be bringing her unique show, "Horses," to the Old Fire Station in Oxford on May 31, 2025. This innovative production is touted as the "first-ever comedy show performed entirely by a horse," featuring an eclectic mix of mime, stand-up, clown performances, and shadow puppetry. At its heart, the show aims to celebrate the essence of play and the childlike spirit within all of us.
Lyons, a multi-talented artist, has garnered significant recognition for her creative flair. Her past works have included reimagined classical ballets and musicals addressing economic themes, along with immersive horror experiences. Notably, she has also lectured at prestigious venues such as the Barbican, where she shared insights on the Surrealist movement. Since 2017, she has been a fixture in the comedy awards circuit, receiving nominations for several prestigious accolades, including the Edinburgh Comedy Award and the Malcolm Hardee Award for Comic Originality. In 2018, her efforts were rewarded when she won Pick of the Fringe at the Adelaide Fringe Festival in Australia.
In 2023, The Telegraph named her one of the Top 50 Funniest Comedians of the 21st Century, a testament to her enduring appeal and the depth of her comedic artistry. "Horses," which has already received critical acclaim including a five-star review from The Telegraph, is described as a thrilling concoction of creativity that stimulates both laughter and reflection. One reviewer enthused, "I adored every silly-filly bit of it and can’t think of many performers who combine such bravura comic invention with such livewire pluck.”
Following its successful debut at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in 2024, where it captured the coveted (ISH) Edinburgh Comedy Award for Best Show and was named Best Show by peers at the Comedians' Choice Awards, "Horses" is poised for a broader tour. The show has reportedly garnered 12 five-star reviews, further solidifying its appeal to diverse audiences.
The performance features Treacle, the horse, who brings an additional layer of charm and intrigue to the production. As audiences are guided through various comedic scenarios, the audience is invited to suspend disbelief and immerse themselves in a world where the line between equine and human comedy blurs. This not only showcases Lyons' visionary creativity but also highlights her ability to inspire joy and connection through art.
Tickets for the Oxford show are available for £18 and are suitable for viewers aged 15 and over, making it accessible for a wide demographic. The inclusion of stunning visuals and engaging narratives is sure to resonate with attendees, encouraging them to rediscover their playful side.
In a landscape where the arts often combat the seriousness of contemporary life, "Horses" stands out as a heartfelt reminder of the joy and wonder that can be found in creativity. With Lyons at the helm, audiences can expect an unforgettable experience that champions playfulness and imagination in the most delightful of ways.
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Source: Noah Wire Services