Joy is the leader of a new youth group. That's not really by choice, having been fired from her position as head of "Xtra Time", her previous group, and replaced by the evil Fiona. As such, she doesn't have the biggest amount of attendees, these solely being her nephew Darren, and Maya, a local rebel. Also causing havoc is her mother, who is perpetually disappointed in her unemployed, still single daugther. (The mother is very fun.)
Luckily, she's got an indomitable spirit, which means that she is determined to win the local fundraising competition. This will provide her with both some necessary cash to do up the old library room she's working from, and the opportunity to meet Michael Fraser, local news reporter, of whom she's rather fond. (And by rather fond I of course mean she wants his babies.)
Obvious parallels can be drawn to Clare in the Community, but this has a very different feel. Whereas "Clare" is about someone who is strait-laced to the point of ridiculousness, Joy goes in the opposite direction. She effectively has no filter, giving voice to every passing thought or whim she has. This might be her mad passion for Michael, the desire to win the great stationery battle or the fact that some kids are just bastards. These side jaunts tend to result in the biggest laughs, and I sat clutching my sides for a couple of them.
As a single, I assume it's a pilot, and it definitely has a lot of promise for a series. There's always the possibility that it will retread the ground of Clare a little, but the characters involved have enough of a cheerful life to them that I'd happily listen to more of it. Especially when one of the kids is called Triffid. I don't know whether she's good with plants or not, but it's kind of an amazing name.
The situations thrown into the show are silly enough to be wildly entertaining, including protection rackets and illicit drinking, and the constant speaking in innuendos is an impressive highlight, especially when fighting with relatives. I strongly suggest giving it a go.
Tagged: Radio Comedy Cast Sitcom Workplace/Employment