The Umbilical Brothers, an Australian comedy duo composed of Shane Dundas and David Collins, have been entertaining audiences worldwide with their unique blend of mime, physical comedy, and clever wordplay for over three decades. Since their formation in 1988, they have performed in numerous stage shows, television programs, and films, captivating fans with their innovative and hilarious performances. But what are the Umbilical Brothers doing now?
A Brief History of the Umbilical Brothers
Before diving into their current endeavors, it’s essential to understand the duo’s background and rise to fame. Shane Dundas and David Collins met while attending the University of Western Sydney, where they began performing together as a comedy duo. Their early work was heavily influenced by the likes of Charlie Chaplin, Buster Keaton, and the Marx Brothers, which is evident in their physical comedy style and use of mime.
The Umbilical Brothers gained widespread recognition in the 1990s with their stage show “The Umbilical Brothers,” which premiered at the Sydney Comedy Festival in 1994. The show’s success led to international tours, and they soon found themselves performing at renowned comedy festivals, including the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and the Melbourne International Comedy Festival.
Television and Film Appearances
In addition to their stage work, the Umbilical Brothers have made numerous television and film appearances. They have had their own television shows, including “The Umbilical Brothers’ World Tour of Australia” and “The Upside Down Show,” which aired on the ABC in Australia and the Disney Channel in the United States.
The duo has also appeared on various other TV programs, such as “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno,” “Late Night with Conan O’Brien,” and “Spicks and Specks.” Their film credits include “The Extra” and “The Wiggles Movie,” showcasing their versatility as comedic performers.
Current Projects and Tours
So, what are the Umbilical Brothers doing now? The duo continues to tour and perform their unique brand of comedy, entertaining audiences worldwide. In recent years, they have been working on new stage shows, including “The Umbilical Brothers: Speedmouse” and “The Umbilical Brothers: Not Suitable for Children.”
“The Umbilical Brothers: Speedmouse” is a high-energy show that features the duo’s signature physical comedy and clever wordplay. The performance is a non-stop, action-packed ride that has been praised by critics and audiences alike.
“The Umbilical Brothers: Not Suitable for Children” is a more recent production, which premiered in 2019. This show is geared towards adult audiences and features a more mature brand of humor. The performance includes a mix of physical comedy, storytelling, and clever observations on life.
International Tours and Performances
The Umbilical Brothers continue to tour internationally, performing at comedy festivals and venues around the world. In recent years, they have performed in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia, among other countries.
Their international tours have been met with critical acclaim, with many praising the duo’s unique brand of comedy and their ability to entertain audiences of all ages. The Umbilical Brothers’ performances are a testament to their skill and creativity as comedic performers.
Other Ventures and Collaborations
In addition to their stage shows and tours, the Umbilical Brothers have been involved in various other projects and collaborations. They have worked with other comedians and performers, including the Wiggles, a popular Australian children’s entertainment group.
The duo has also been involved in various charity work, including performances for organizations such as the Starlight Children’s Foundation and the Australian Red Cross. Their charity work is a testament to their commitment to giving back to their community and using their talents to make a positive impact.
Teaching and Workshops
The Umbilical Brothers have also been involved in teaching and workshops, sharing their knowledge and skills with aspiring comedians and performers. They have taught at various institutions, including the University of Western Sydney and the Australian Theatre for Young People.
Their workshops focus on physical comedy, mime, and improvisation, providing participants with a unique opportunity to learn from two of the world’s leading comedic performers. The Umbilical Brothers’ teaching and workshops are a testament to their commitment to nurturing the next generation of comedians and performers.
Legacy and Impact
The Umbilical Brothers have had a significant impact on the world of comedy, inspiring countless performers and entertaining audiences worldwide. Their unique brand of physical comedy and clever wordplay has influenced a generation of comedians, and their performances continue to be widely acclaimed.
The duo’s legacy extends beyond their own performances, as they have also contributed to the development of physical comedy and mime as art forms. Their work has helped to popularize these forms of comedy, paving the way for other performers to explore and innovate.
Awards and Recognition
The Umbilical Brothers have received numerous awards and accolades for their work, including several Helpmann Awards and a Logie Award. They have also been nominated for several other awards, including a BAFTA TV Award and a AACTA Award.
Their awards and recognition are a testament to their skill and creativity as comedic performers, and their contributions to the world of comedy.
Conclusion
The Umbilical Brothers continue to be one of the most innovative and entertaining comedy duos in the world. With their unique blend of physical comedy, mime, and clever wordplay, they have been entertaining audiences for over three decades.
Their current projects and tours, including “The Umbilical Brothers: Speedmouse” and “The Umbilical Brothers: Not Suitable for Children,” showcase their continued creativity and skill as comedic performers. The duo’s legacy and impact on the world of comedy are undeniable, and their contributions to physical comedy and mime as art forms will be felt for generations to come.
As the Umbilical Brothers continue to tour and perform, audiences around the world can look forward to experiencing their unique brand of comedy. With their clever wordplay, physical comedy, and infectious energy, the Umbilical Brothers are sure to entertain and delight audiences of all ages.
Who are the Umbilical Brothers?
The Umbilical Brothers are an Australian comedy duo composed of Shane Dundas and David Collins. They are known for their unique blend of mime, physical comedy, and vocal sound effects, which they use to create hilarious and often surreal performances. The duo has been active since the 1990s and has gained a significant following worldwide for their innovative and entertaining style of comedy.
The Umbilical Brothers have performed in numerous countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia, and have appeared on various television shows and at comedy festivals. They have also created several television series and specials, showcasing their unique brand of comedy to a wider audience. Throughout their career, the duo has received critical acclaim and has won several awards for their performances.
What kind of comedy do the Umbilical Brothers perform?
The Umbilical Brothers are known for their unique style of comedy, which combines elements of mime, physical comedy, and vocal sound effects. They use their bodies and voices to create a wide range of sounds and characters, often without speaking a word. This style of comedy is both visually and aurally engaging, making it accessible to audiences who may not speak the same language.
Their performances often feature a mix of slapstick humor, witty observations, and clever wordplay, all delivered through their innovative use of sound effects and physical comedy. The Umbilical Brothers’ comedy is highly energetic and engaging, making them a popular choice for live performances and television shows. Their unique style has also influenced other comedians and performers, who have been inspired by their creativity and innovation.
What have the Umbilical Brothers done recently?
In recent years, the Umbilical Brothers have continued to tour and perform live, entertaining audiences around the world with their unique brand of comedy. They have also been working on new television projects, including a series of comedy specials and a children’s television show. The duo has also been involved in various other creative pursuits, including writing and directing.
Despite their busy schedules, the Umbilical Brothers have also made time for charitable work, supporting organizations that promote arts education and comedy as a tool for social change. They have also been involved in various fundraising events and have used their platform to raise awareness for important social issues. Through their work, the Umbilical Brothers continue to inspire and entertain audiences, while also making a positive impact on their communities.
Have the Umbilical Brothers won any awards for their performances?
Yes, the Umbilical Brothers have won several awards for their performances, including the prestigious Helpmann Award for Best Comedy Performance. They have also been nominated for numerous other awards, including the ARIA Award for Best Comedy Release and the Logie Award for Most Outstanding Comedy Program.
In addition to these awards, the Umbilical Brothers have also received critical acclaim for their performances, with many reviewers praising their unique style and innovative use of sound effects and physical comedy. They have been hailed as one of the most original and entertaining comedy duos working today, and their awards and nominations are a testament to their skill and creativity.
Can I see the Umbilical Brothers perform live?
Yes, the Umbilical Brothers regularly tour and perform live, both in their home country of Australia and around the world. They have a busy schedule of live shows and festivals, and fans can check their website or social media accounts to find out when they will be performing in a city near them.
The Umbilical Brothers’ live shows are highly energetic and engaging, featuring a mix of their signature sound effects, physical comedy, and witty observations. Fans can expect a hilarious and entertaining performance that will leave them laughing and amazed by the duo’s creativity and skill. Tickets for their live shows often sell out quickly, so fans are advised to book early to avoid disappointment.
Do the Umbilical Brothers have any upcoming projects?
Yes, the Umbilical Brothers have several upcoming projects in the works, including a new television series and a live show that they will be touring internationally. They are also working on a new children’s television show, which will feature their unique brand of comedy and sound effects.
The Umbilical Brothers are always looking for new ways to challenge themselves and push the boundaries of their comedy, and their upcoming projects promise to be just as innovative and entertaining as their previous work. Fans can stay up-to-date with the latest news and announcements from the duo by following them on social media or signing up for their newsletter.
How can I learn more about the Umbilical Brothers?
There are several ways to learn more about the Umbilical Brothers, including their official website and social media accounts. Fans can also check out their YouTube channel, which features a range of clips and videos showcasing their comedy and sound effects.
In addition to these online resources, the Umbilical Brothers have also written a book about their career and creative process, which offers a behind-the-scenes look at their work and provides insights into their unique approach to comedy. Fans can also attend one of their live shows or workshops, which offer a hands-on introduction to their style of comedy and sound effects.