THE UMBILICAL BROTHERS TURN NEW YORK UPSIDE DOWN:
The Distraction Takes Over the Actors Temple Theatre – May 22–31, 2025
New York, NY: In a city that prides itself on having seen it all (spoiler alert: you haven’t). Australia’s legendary comedy duo, The Umbilical Brothers, are bringing their internationally acclaimed chaos to the historic Actors Temple Theatre (339 W 47th St.) for ten performances over ten days, May 22–31, with their mind-bending live show The Distraction.
David Collins and Shane Dundas, the high-octane pair behind the Umbies, combine virtuosic physical comedy, vocal gymnastics, and surreal timing with the live multimedia sorcery of longtime collaborator Doug Bayne. The result? A genre-defying, brain-tickling spectacle that leaves audiences…and occasionally, reality…struggling to keep up. The Distraction has earned rave reviews worldwide, with Broadway Baby calling it: “A genuinely fresh and modern style of comedy show… an unmissable and unforgettable comedy experience.”
Critics have long hailed The Umbilical Brothers’ work:
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“Astonishingly original… you’ll laugh until it hurts.” — The New York Times
“Think Looney Tunes performed by two Houdinis with microphones.” — Chicago Tribune
“A masterclass in controlled chaos.” — The Guardian
The Distraction recently took home Best Comedy at the Adelaide Fringe, adding to an already overflowing trophy case that includes an Emmy® Award, multiple Helpmann Awards, Edinburgh Comedy Awards, and multiple Logie Awards. With over 250 million views across social media, the Umbilical Brothers have built a fiercely loyal fan base that spans generations. Their 1.4 million TikTok followers, many of whom first encountered the duo through the Emmy-winning Upside Down Show, now bring their own families to experience the madness live. That nostalgic connection, fused with the duo’s relentless creativity, gives The Distraction its rare, multi-generational appeal.
At just $50 a ticket, The Distraction is the best value in town for a night of Off-Broadway brilliance.
PRESS CONTACT
For press inquiries, including interview requests and complimentary tickets, please contact: Brandie – Everything You Like Productions
brandie@everythingyoulike.fyi