The Umbilical Brothers

The Umbilical Brothers are an Australian comedy duo consisting of David Collins and Shane Dundas, known for their unique blend of physical humor, slapstick, mime, and vocal sound effects. Their innovative and energetic performances, which often defy the conventions of traditional stand-up comedy, have made them international stars in both live theatre and television.

David and Shane met while studying acting at the University of Western Sydney and formed The Umbilical Brothers in the late 1980s. Their big break came in the 1990s when they began performing at major comedy festivals around the world, including the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, where they gained widespread acclaim. They have since performed in over 37 countries and continue to be a hit at comedy festivals globally. Their show "Thwak" received a Drama Desk Award nomination for the "Most Unique Theatrical Experience" and has been lauded by major publications, highlighting their global appeal and critical recognition.

The duo’s humor often revolves around playful and absurd scenarios, with Shane providing exaggerated sound effects and vocalizations while David engages in equally exaggerated physical comedy. This synchronization of voice and body, combined with rapid-fire timing, creates a highly visual and auditory comedy experience. Their work has been compared to cartoons brought to life, and they’ve gained a reputation for their ability to entertain audiences of all ages. Apart from their theater successes, they have also successfully entertained at corporate events for major companies such as American Express and Merrill Lynch, showcasing their versatility and appeal in various performance contexts.

The Umbilical Brothers have also had success on television, starring in shows like “The Upside Down Show,” a children's television program created for Nickelodeon, which won a Daytime Emmy Award. They've appeared on prominent TV programs, including “The Late Show with David Letterman” and “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.” In addition to TV, they’ve released several live comedy DVDs and performed in large theaters worldwide, consistently impressing audiences with their creativity and boundless energy. Known for their unique style and ability to transcend language barriers, The Umbilical Brothers continue to push the boundaries of physical comedy, creating performances that blend skill, humor, and imagination.