Around 2022, I read Perfect Sound Whatever by James Acaster. I knew of the comedian because Would I Lie To You? is one of my favorite British panel shows. I deeply connect with the book because Acaster and I went through something similar, except mine happened in 2014 and 2015, and movies are my escapism.
This new interest in Acaster led to the introduction of two of my favorite things: Off Menu with Ed Gamble and James Acaster and Taskmaster.
I have seen every new series, every spin-off, and most of the international versions. My love for the series runs so deep that I added “See Taskmaster live” to my bucket list. I reside in the Chicago surrounding area.
Therefore, the only way for this to happen is to fly to London. In 2025, I considered trying to complete this goal in 2026. Because I am signed up for the audience emailing list, I know studio filming often happens in May.
A friend who regularly flies to Europe informed me that May is when plane tickets to London are expensive.
I gave up that dream for 2026. Then, the impossible became possible: Taskmaster announced a US tour. They stop at Chicago first. Tickets sell out immediately.
I do not flinch. Thank you, to the Avalon team for providing me with a ticket. This goal would have been delayed without their help and generosity.
The Taskmaster Live show happens in about three parts. The first includes a general Q&A with Alex Horne and Greg Davies. Taskmaster Australia contestant Jenny Tian acted as the MC for this stop and part. She asks them questions submitted by the audience. Clips of the show – including some from the upcoming series – are incorporated.
Our destructive prince and savior, Jason Mantzoukas, plays a major role in these clips. This makes his surprise appearance later in the tour so much more fun for those who experience it.
The second portion of the show focuses on Horne and Davies finding three audience members to compete for a miniature version of Greg’s glorious head trophy. Audience members can participate in a series of challenges to win their way on stage.
These test their creativity, skills, and Taskmaster knowledge. One task focuses on guessing a phone number and speedy dialing, while another simply involves throwing a paper plane at Alex. Maximum chaos and fun motivate these tasks.
Taskmaster Live gives a nearly full adult audience the chance to play and enjoy some whimsy on a cold January day. Once the three contestants are selected, two local comedians also appear. Later in the tour, some bigger names participate.
Though slight jealousy occurs that Chicago didn’t have more well-known comedians, the show works either way. At no point during Taskmaster Live did anyone think, “I wish Seth Meyers were here.” This is proof that Taskmaster works because of Horne, Davies, and this majestic, silly format.
The final part of the show is just an episode performed live: The prize task, some challenges, scoring, and a winner. It truly feels like the entire audience is in London watching an episode, but slightly more disorganized and manic. That makes it just as fun. The local comedians offer hilarious banter with Davies and Horne, but the three selected audience members are just as funny.
It’s impressive how quick-witted and void of nervousness they all seem. The audience is also very into everything happening. They are just overjoyed and enthusiastic to witness everything live.
It acts as a reminder to just live in the moment. Enjoy the ride.
The only true chaos happens when Horne underestimates how long things take. This leads to some panic, but Riviera Theater kindly lets the show finish without extra rental charges.
Horne and Davies naturally adapt to this change in format. They give the same energy as you expect in a regular episode of Taskmaster.
It’s admirable. No one wants it to end. However, it’s a long show, so prepare to leave late.
I took two trains to get there, so having to travel alone that late was risky but worth it. The show is Entertaining, whimsical, immaculate vibes, and very similar to the TV version, but in the US.
The Taskmaster Live US tour has come to an end. However, if it comes around here again, go if possible. I hope to get another chance to experience the madness and beauty that is Taskmaster live.
All Information is on the Task.
