Louis B Hobson's Randy Savage review

Geoff Hughes wrote, directed and stars in this tribute to wrestling icon Randy “Macho Man” Savage. The show is as much about Hughes as it is about the American wrestler because Hughes was/is the ultimate fan. It is one of those cautionary tales about meeting your idol.

We got to meet and talk briefly with Hughes before his show at the Blox Arts Centre, and the transformation to his onstage persona is remarkable. He maintains the Macho Man facade for the full 60 minutes. It’s an exhausting transformation both physically and vocally. Hughes wears the famous garb of Savage and he speaks with the same grunting forcefulness.

Hughes tells how Savage met Miss Elizabeth and how their relationship was a bit like a wrestling match. He also introduces us to such wrestling greats as Hulk Hogan, Owen Hart and Andre the Giant. You don’t have to know anything about Macho Man or wrestling because Hughes fills in all the details in the most entertaining of ways. More importantly, he reveals so much about himself as the ultimate fan of Savage. He recalls for us the time, as a teenager, he got to meet Savage. It’s a poignant memory because during the initial encounter that day, Savage brushed him off. There is a bit of a happy ending though which helps to explain why Hughes has poured his heart and talents into this show.