I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter Chicken! melds slap stick with the inevitable arranged marriage jab or two while ruffling the occasional f-bomb and gender bender. Think tradition meets modern, with a dollop of South Asian flare and a token white comedienne to boot (can I say that these days? Well, just did).

by @nadatodo

After working my day job, visiting my parents , doing some note-taking, touring a few malls in the ‘burbs for reasonably-priced sneakers (note: none exist) and chatting about life and goal making, I’m finally at my desk ready to take on some butter chicken.

Making no sense? Well, let me explain.

May 9th was the preview showing of I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter Chicken! Presented by Bollywood Shenanigans and South Asian Arts, we’re talking improv, comedy, and oh yeah, Bollywood theatrics and dancing. I have to admit, I didn’t know what to expect but the press release looked enticing.

A little side note: I like cultural jokes. I like generalizations, stereotypes, clichés, and the like. Yes, I get that not everyone falls into a category, and that mocking perpetuates archaic labels and so forth. But archetypes are archetypes and there is some truth to it all. Also, I want to add I’m always down for a little poking and prodding. If anything, that’s what makes comedy and culture rich: the ability to see things for what they are and take the piss out of it.

So that said, let’s get right to it. Let me introduce our six joke-tellers: Leena Manro, Munish Sharma, Aga Postawska, Sandhy Sharma, Kallol Mitra and Kulveer Taggar. A continuum from a previous sketch-comedy show, I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter Chicken! melds slap stick with the inevitable arranged marriage jab or two while ruffling the occasional f-bomb and gender bender. Think tradition meets modern, with a dollop of South Asian flare and a token white comedienne to boot (can I say that these days? Well, just did).

While some skits ran a little too long (the two before the finale were a bit drawn out), the overall show was quick and quick-witted. Sketches were sharp. The topics were dynamic, going beyond even the clichés I adore. Plus, the cast chemistry was on. I especially loved Leena and Munish—their comedic timing was brilliantly executed.

A great ensemble cast and a wonderful self-deprecating and inviting exploration of South Asian culture and more. Go see it!

There is one left and four shows to see! Tickets are $20 in advance (+ service charge) or $25 at the door. All shows at the CBC studios at 700 Hamilton Street. For tickets and more info, click HERE.

May 12: 7-830PM & 930-11PM

PS: Seen a Butter Chicken! show before? This one is brand new, with new sketches, new jokes, and new twists. Just thought I’d add that. Goodnight and continue to support local performers!