Ece Mustafoff - Tomato Queen
All rise for Ece Mustafoff in Tomato Queen! This was a really joyful hour of solo sketch comedy, charmingly executed by a unique and engaging newcomer.
Tomato Queen is a love letter to the oddballs, and Mustafoff is outstanding in bringing them to life. Characters ike Mustafa, the Turkish taxi driver, and Jane, the ATO worker, shine the brightest and feel rooted in reality. It's this contrast of groundedness with absurdity that allows characters to grow in delight the more time they have to cook.
The relaxed approach to playing with the audience was a surprise highlight. It’s a sign of a true professional and great clowning sensibilities to elicit huge laughs from subtlety, and Mustafoff had me howling at even the slightest of facial expressions.
Tomato Queen is special in its sincerity, and it is clear Mustafoff is having the time of her life on stage. If you're a fan of misfit characters with a lot of heart at their core, this is a must-watch. I'd definitely keep your eyes on Mustafoff - hers is a fresh voice unlike anybody else.
Ece Mustafoff, Tomato Queen
The Motley Spielhaus, 5:45pm
Reviewed by Maddison Verduci