By Nicola Moyne
MARK Little is a man with big ideas. Currently starring in Defending the Caveman – a show he has been involved with for 10 years – the politically-minded performer has long been involved in observational comedy and his passion for positive change has always engaged audiences.
Even back in the early days, when he starred as Joe Mangel in Aussie soap Neighbours, Mark’s enthusiasm for life shone through, and now he’s trying to make a difference to Essex theatre-goers.
Returning to the Palace Theatre in Westcliff on 12 and 13 May, Mark will once again be reprising his role of ‘caveman’ in the hugely popular observational comedy, Defending the Caveman. But if you think it’s not up your street, think again.
“The beauty of the show is that everyone can relate to it,” Mark tells me. “It’s essentially about the differences between men and women, and the fact that, somewhere along the line, the modern man has lost his way. It’s honest and cleverly observed and it’s a great thesis: we’ve literally forgotten that men and women used to be different.”
Indeed, having seen Defending the Caveman myself I can honestly say everyone will relate to the humour, and in many ways, come out a little more educated.
“It’s an enlightening show,” Mark agrees. “I take a big issue and make it more palatable. The fact is women are exhausted from doing everything and men don’t know whether they’re Arthur or Martha anymore - and that resonates with every audience all over the world.”
Dubbed as the show for couples to see, Defending the Caveman has proved to be a worldwide hit. It holds the record as the longest running solo play in Broadway history and has toured 30 countries worldwide. Mark even won an Olivier Award for his performance in 2000.
However, ever keen to keep things fresh, Mark admits he is constantly tweaking the script to ensure audiences can keep coming back. “You’re only as good as your last show, so I’m constantly looking at ways to make it better,” he says.
“As a result, I think it’s infinitely better than it was 10 years ago. It’s a class act because it’s a true reflection on society.”
And it’s this kind of comedy that Mark loves. “I think we’ve gone through a bit of a dumbed-down stage in comedy over the last few years and it’s definitely time to start engaging our brains,” the 50-year-old admits.
“The big issues in life need to be explored and I think comedy is a great platform to discuss them on. That’s part of the reason why I love this show; I feel as though I’m telling a story that should be told.”
However, having run for almost 20 years, it looks as though Defending the Caveman may come to the end of its run this year, which is why Mark is already branching out into new projects.
“I’m rehearsing for a new play that will show in Kilburn this summer,” the Brighton-based comedian reveals. “It’s a fantastic piece of literature called A Stretch of the Imagination, and basically follows the last day of a 100-year-old hermit.”
But aside from his success in theatre, Mark is still passionate about live TV, and following his days on the Big Breakfast, he’s keen to get back on our screens.
“A while ago I realised that there’s nothing on in the early mornings, the sort of time people get up at if they can’t sleep, or when they roll in after a night out. Wouldn’t it be fantastic if there was a fun, engaging, live show on at that time?”
And it seems the TV execs agree with him, as Mark is currently in talks with several channels, including Channel Five to discuss the idea more.
For now though Mark is happy to set the record straight on the sexes and concludes: “We have to have faith in humanity. And, if we can have a laugh along the way, then that can’t be a bad thing.”
Defending the Caveman shows at the Palace Theatre on 12 and 13 May. For more information, or to book, call 01702 351135.
n The Enquirer has two pairs of tickets to give away to the show on 13 May. To win, email admin@theenquirer.co.uk by 10 May.