Our host enters, dressed in a David Bowie costume complete with glittery jumpsuit, sprayed red hair, and lightning bolt face paint. He launches into a monologue about the election, celebrity deaths, and being currently high on not only “a sh*t ton of Percocet” like he was last month, but “a sh*t ton of Percocet and a sh*t ton of OxyContin.” Drinking is encouraged. Then the games begin.
Questionable Content has a similar format to current British TV panel shows like Would I Lie to You? and 8 Out of 10 Cats, but with mostly Seattle-specific questions. It’s a comedy panel show in which two teams face off in a battle of games and trivia. But things like “facts” and “rules” aren’t that important. At least, not compared to charmingly weird improv bits, baiting the MC and fellow contestants, and getting the audience involved.
While the panel show style is probably the thing getting first-timers in the door, it’s the performers who will have them coming back for more. David Rollison is a charmingly maniacal master of ceremonies. Ian Schuelke is the sunny scorekeeper who’s bad at math. Team captains Phill Arensberg, dressed as Groucho Marx, and Ray Williams, whose “Fork in the Road” lost him (him as an individual, not his team) three points, round out the regular cast. They are supported by hilarious and weird guests drunk superhero Red Sun, clueless Klingon cosplayer Dianne, Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders, and everyone’s favorite neighbor Fred Rogers (complete with both pairs of shoes.)
If you’re a Seattleite, comedy fan, and even a little bit of a weirdo, Questionable Content is the show for you. The irreverent atmosphere, loveable performers, and jokes both scripted and improvised will make you wish this “prime time” style show was actually on prime time.
Questionable Content by David Rollison, Martin Stillion, and cast. Bimonthly at various locations. Next show: Sat, Dec 10, 10:00 p.m. at The Pocket. Tickets: http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2665693 Show schedule: http://questionablecontentlive.com/show-schedule/ More info: http://questionablecontentlive.com/