Broadcasters, agents and promoters in the North are constantly on the look-out for an elusive product, which they refer to as "post-Troubles" comedy. This, presumably, means something that makes us laugh and does not simply bang on about the Troubles - in the past tense. Clearly, it is hard to find. But look no further, all ye wielders of contracts and cheque books. For lo, at the hallowed citadel of theatre which is the Lyric, a show has appeared which is for all men, women and teenage children - and not a cliche about the bad old days in sight. Actors Alan McKee and Conor Grimes have forged a burgeoning comedy partnership, which garnered warm praise for their Belfast Festival offering, The Dogs in the Street.
Using the junkyard set of Red Riding Hood, which precedes it on stage every night, Plucked and Stuffed begins with a nameless, depressed young man, about to jump off a roof to escape the futility and monotony of his mundane existence. But his purpose is thwarted by the unexpected arrival of his late Uncle Bertie - Grimes resplendent in warehouseman's coat, flat cap, tortoiseshell spectacles and pink wings - who whisks him away on a whistle-stop tour of his native land, unveiling the rich tapestry of life that lies therein. From that point, surreality takes over, as the pair pop in and out as, well, you name it: young gombeens at a disco, an Ulster-Scots speaking minister, roadside Stop-Go sign operatives, prissy priests, worldly wise altar boys and Santa's elves. These are the folks who never went away during the 30-odd years of the Troubles, who were - and are - always there, leading their funny, intense lives among the green fields, quiet villages, highways and by-ways of the North.
The comedy is sharp, and acutely observed, adult but never blue and the hugely receptive audience seemed more than willing for Grimes and McKee to put themselves on permanent prescription for this fraught time of year.