“The Boy with Tape on his Face” is a character created and performed by New Zealand comic Sam Wills. Wills refers to this character simply as The Boy and is, like his character, quite silent about where his comedy ideas come from. The Boy with Tape on his Face employs what is known as prop comedy, in which a funny stage act is created only with props and miming. To emphasize the fact that he doesn’t speak on stage, Wills covers his mouth with tape.
The Boy with Tape on his Face is a very likable character who appeals to the sense of awkwardness that everyone feels from time to time. The difference between Sam Wills and the rest of the world is that instead of hiding this awkward part of himself, he’s chosen to dress it up, put it on stage, shine a bright light on it and turn his awkwardness into comedy. Many of Wills’ acts require an unwitting participant from the crowd. In some acts, Wills sets up the scene and then leaves it to the volunteer and audience to create the comedy act themselves. Like a comedian who chats with a crowd, Wills manages to create crowd interaction, so that every person in the theater feels as though they are apart of the comedy show.
Visit Sam Wills’ website The Boy with Tape on His Face for more info on this silent stage comedian
