Watch Nirvanna the Band the Show

Nirvanna the Band the Show is a hidden camera prank series that is also a mockumentary and a musical comedy. It follows the two protagonists, Matt Johnson and Jay McCarrol, as they go on hilarious and often absurd quests to achieve their lifelong dream of playing a show at The Rivoli, a famous Toronto music venue. Johnson and McCarrol play themselves, but they often involve unsuspecting strangers in their escapades, leading to some unforgettable and unpredictable moments.

The show is produced by Jared Raab and Matt Johnson, who co-wrote and co-directed it, as well as serving as the show's stars. The series premiered on Viceland, a cable channel owned by Vice Media, in 2016. Nirvanna the Band the Show was praised by critics and audiences alike for its unpredictable humor, as well as its clever use of music and hidden camera gags.

The series follows Matt and Jay as they attempt to sneak their way onto the stage of The Rivoli, a goal that they are willing to pursue by any means necessary. At the beginning of each episode, the duo thinks up a new scheme to get into the venue, ranging from pretending to be a famous band's roadies to disguising themselves as janitors. Matt and Jay employ their wits, humor, and musical skills in order to pull off each insane plan, and though they rarely achieve their goal, they always end up having a lot of fun.

Throughout the series, Matt and Jay face a number of obstacles, including angry bouncers, tough roadblocks, and clueless security guards. Each episode is structured in a different way, but often includes hidden camera footage of the two protagonists attempting to execute their plan, along with interviews with the people they encounter along the way. Nirvanna the Band the Show is part-mockumentary, part-comedy and part-real-life prank show. Through its unique style, the show makes a commentary on fame, friendship, and the music industry.

One of the standout features of Nirvanna the Band the Show is its integration of music into the show. Matt and Jay are clearly passionate about music, and this comes through in their wild quest. They often use playing music as a way to overcome obstacles in their way, or as a way to gain access to restricted areas. Each episode features at least one song written by the two protagonists, which often has hilarious lyrics and a catchy hook.

Another aspect that makes Nirvanna the Band the Show unique is its creative use of Toronto as a backdrop for their adventures. The series showcases the city in a way that is often overlooked by mainstream media, highlighting the quirky aspects of Toronto through its street festivals, iconic landmarks, and its diverse population.

The show has been praised for its innovative format, which combines hidden camera gags, musical comedy, and mockumentary. Nirvanna the Band the Show has drawn comparisons to shows like Nathan For You, as well as the humor of Monty Python and Flight of the Conchords. However, Nirvanna the Band the Show has a distinctive style that sets it apart from other comedy series. Its unique blend of humor, music, and prankster antics make it unlike anything else on television.

Overall, Nirvanna the Band the Show is an irreverent, unpredictable and hilarious ride that is a must-watch for fans of hidden camera comedies or indie music. Through its unique blend of comedy and music, the series highlights the humor inherent in pursuing one's dreams, even if those dreams are somewhat ridiculous. The show's Toronto-specific focus also makes it appealing to Canadians and travelers alike, showcasing the city's cultural landmarks in a fresh and unexpected way. Nirvanna the Band the Show is a delightful romp that will keep audiences laughing and guessing from beginning to end.

Nirvanna the Band the Show is a series that ran for 2 seasons (18 episodes) between February 2, 2017 and on Viceland