The Edinburgh Fringe Full Monty (nearly) – Day 22, 26th August 2022

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A good mix of comedy and theatre arranged for Edinburgh today!

Here’s the schedule for 26th August:

Word of mouth is the most important thing at the Fringe, and friends told us we must see Wilf at the Traverse Theatre. So we’re fitted it in this morning!

UPDATE: That rare thing – a comedy that is extraordinarily creative in its subject matter, confronts headfirst disturbing issues like domestic abuse and mental illness, and is also jaw-achingly funny. Beautifully staged and performed by Michael Dylan, Irene Allan and Neil John Gibson, there’s no way this play won’t have a life beyond the Fringe. Absolutely magnificent! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

14.20 – Sooz Kempner: PlayStation, PBH’s Free Fringe @ Banshee Labyrinth. From the Edinburgh Fringe website:

“Twitter sensation Sooz (BBC Radio 4, BT Sport, BBC Radio 5 Live) got a PlayStation, the first adult console, in 1998 and finally felt grown-up. But is she? A stand-up show for anyone who remembers the 90s and had big dreams as a kid. Suitable for gamers and non-gamers alike! ‘A new wave of comedy’ (Guardian). ‘Incredible… it shouldn’t work but it really, really does’ (Independent). ‘Brilliant’ (LA Times). Comedy Central Top Shows of the Fringe 2018. **** (Fest). **** (Broadway World). **** (Chortle.co.uk). **** (EdinburghReporter.co.uk). **** (Stage).”

Never seen Sooz Kempner before but have heard great things, so we’re looking forward to this one.

UPDATE: Very funny – I thought we might be at a disadvantage knowing nothing about computer games, but Sooz used them as a springboard for lots of other brilliant material, all based on that natural unwillingness to grow up. Extremely funny and inventive, and excellent use of pre-recorded material. Our first time seeing Sooz Kempner, but definitely not our last. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

16.10 – Antiques, Greenside @ Nicolson Square.

“The Griffen Collective present Antiques by Ted Smethurst. Worn out by the city, young couple Sam and Lucy move to the countryside, searching for a peaceful rural lifestyle. They arrive in the village of Little Dickingsworth: picture perfect and untouched by modern life. The villagers like it that way and don’t take kindly to change. Perhaps Little Dickingsworth is not as charming as it appears and your new neighbours don’t play nice with strangers.”

This sounds rather League of Gentlemen-ish, which isn’t really our cup of tea, but we’re giving it a risky punt.

UPDATE: Should have followed my natural caution on this one. An attempt to recreate a League of Gentleman-type nightmare village with a range of weirdo inhabitants. Not sure if it had any further point than that – and it proves just how hard it is to be The League of Gentlemen. Mrs C slept blissfully through most of it. The sad thing is that you can see a lot of effort went into this; but it really was not good. ⭐️

17.50 – Pillows, The Space on North Bridge.

“On a normal bed, in a normal bedroom, two normal university students try to figure out their place in the world – and their place in each other’s lives. They’ve known each other since they were 15. They’re pretty sure of that. But they’re on the brink of adulthood now – life changes and there’s so much that should have been said long ago. A single conversation that drifts between love, sex, Bowie, break-ups and Adam Sandler, Pillows is a new one-act play that wanders through the murky depths of teenage love without leaving one boy’s bedroom.”

Hoping for some entertaining and thought-provoking drama here, let’s hope I’m right.

UPDATE: Amazing flowing conversational acting, an intimate meeting of two people who can’t live together and can’t live apart. Superb performances from Eve Billington and Aaron Garland – fantastic young actors in the making! If I have a criticism, it would be that the play itself is a little repetitive, and it ends where it begins; I’m not sure if the characters make any real progress. But what an acting feat! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

19.50 – There’s No Mystery in Murder! The Space on the Mile.

“Murder has come to Rothersdale, where nothing ever happens. A local councillor is found dead after his plan to build a big supermarket creates unrest. A jaded city detective with an unblemished record for solving crime and an enthusiastic local cop desperate to prove herself must unwillingly team up to crack the case. Will they stop the murderer before they strike again? Northern Corner’s four-person cast bring an entire village of unhinged locals to life in this countryside crime caper, a new Yorkshire musical!”

Another comedy murder show – this time a musical, which should make it stand out!

UPDATE: Entertaining and nicely written compact little musical where our gallant Policewoman solves three murders in a sleepy Yorkshire town. The songs are surprisingly good! It’s a shame that one member of the cast wasn’t quite a vocally perfect as the others; but it was good fun – and I’m still humming one of the tunes to myself! ⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Edinburgh Fringe Full Monty (nearly) – Day 21, 25th August 2022

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Lots of comedy arranged for Edinburgh today!

Here’s the schedule for 25th August:

12.00 – Joanna Neary: Wasp In A Cardigan, The Stand Comedy Club 2. From the Edinburgh Fringe website:

“One-time Riot grrrl, witch, illustrator Joanna and her volatile alter egos explore life and love. Punchlines include fry-up, arsehole and Xmal Deutschland. ‘One of the most naturally funny stand-ups around’ (Stage). ‘Inherently funny’ **** (Chortle.co.uk). ‘Most striking is the contrast between the big-grinned, scatty sweetness she has when she’s being herself, and the surgical precision with which she skewers her characters’ foibles’ (Independent). Edinburgh Award Newcomer nominee. Best Actress, Brighton Fringe. Best Show nominee at Leicester Comedy Festival. Judith in BBC’s Ideal. Featured in Time Trumpet, Man Down, Wife On Earth Podcast. joneary.com”

Joanna Neary is a name new to us but I’ve heard good things, so fingers crossed this will be fun.

UPDATE: Quite a curious show. Nice, but niche, characterisations – including Celia Johnson, whom I saw in the west end 50 years ago but the vast percentage of modern comedy-watchers wouldn’t know from Adam. If you don’t know southern Cornish references, or don’t get the finer aspects of a Merthyr Tydfil accent, you’re left to admire, if not actually enjoy, much of the show. Great Kate Bush imitation – again, 40 years on; and some nice material but a lot of it doesn’t quite work and there was an embarrassing moment when she accused an audience member of being on their phone when in fact he was just holding hands with his girlfriend. This one didn’t quite do it for us. ⭐️⭐️

15.10 – Eh Up, Me Old Flowers! Pleasance Courtyard.

“In the 1970s, the biggest comedy show on television was ITV’s The Comedians. It made Charlie Williams the first black comic to become a household name. Perhaps his material would nowadays be considered questionable. But perhaps if you’d lived his extraordinary life in a white man’s world – coal miner, professional footballer, cabaret singer, comedian – you’d have done the same. Now in retirement, Charlie faces an uncomfortable visit from a mysterious stranger who demands that he justify himself… By Chris England (An Evening with Gary Lineker) and starring Tony Marshall (Casualty, Life on Mars).”

I’m expecting this to be great. I remember Charlie Williams very fondly, always used to love his TV appearances – and actually saw him at the Palladium once. This will be a mixture of nostalgia and a bit of a challenge.

UPDATE: An excellent portrayal of Charlie Williams, by Tony Marshall; and the play itself is full of great storytelling, and ultimately is remarkably moving. You don’t have to remember Charlie Williams from the 70s, but it helps if you do! The play posed fascinating questions about whether Williams was complicit in spreading racism, or did he pave the way for the likes of Lenny Henry or Gary Wilmot? I was really surprised to find I had a tear in my eye at the end. Way better than you might possibly expect!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

18.10 – Emmanuel Sonubi: Emancipated, Underbelly Bristo Square.

“Sonubi has only been on the comedy circuit for what feels like five minutes and he’s already garnering himself a reputation as the one to watch out for, having gone from open spot to closing BBC’s Live at the Apollo in an incredibly short space of time. He has also performed at many of the largest clubs and festivals across Europe. He made his TV debut on Comedy Central UK and was recently on The John Bishop Show for ITV1 and the Stand Up Sketch Show on ITV2. ‘The bloke has got funny bones’ (Romesh Ranganathan).”

We saw Emmanuel Sonubi at a Spank show a few years ago – I described him as intimidatingly funny. Let’s hope he’s got a great show for us this year!

UPDATE: Big-hearted Emmanuel gets great material out of the difference between his imposing appearance and his true personality – he’s a bit of a softie really! A very funny hour packed with thoroughly entertaining stuff about kids, his heart issues, and musical theatre! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

21.15 – Jesus L’Oreal: Nailed It! Gilded Balloon Patter Hoose.

“Halle-berry-lujah! Your sassy, dyslexic King of the shoes is heaven scent in a cloud of Febreze to tell you how he came to be the fabulous influencer that he is whilst setting the record straight about events of his life. Be it stories about being born in a barn surrounded by ass or simply tips to shift a stone doing Pontius Pilates, the ultimate lifestyle guru has a high-octane hour of song, dance and interactive Jehovah’s Fitness to help you flex those Pentecostal muscles all the way to the kingdom of Hosannadu. It’s sacre-licious!”

One of those delightfully tasteless shows that Edinburgh always throws up, I’m looking forward to sharing in the blasphemy for an hour or so!

UPDATE: Jesus L’Oreal fronts an hour of fitness, self-help and sermonising, whilst revelling in a very funny script jam-packed with song lyrics, for the fun of it. Plenty of audience participation, and he even turns water into wine. Nothing earth-shattering, but very good humoured; not for those of a serious religious persuasion though! ⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Edinburgh Fringe Full Monty (nearly) – Day 20, 24th August 2022

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A heavy day of drama in Edinburgh today!

Here’s the schedule for 24th August:

11.20 – Words Without Consent, Greenside @ Infirmary Street. From the Edinburgh Fringe website:

“Following a tour across England, 2Gal are bringing their four-star political satire to Edinburgh Fringe. Words Without Consent tells two stories: an out of control debate, and two gals getting ready to go out (like, out-out.) Using both well-known political faux pas and those that have been swept under the rug, the play invites the audience to laugh at the ridiculous state of the current political landscape. But while a BoJo meme is well worth a share, should we be asking more from our leaders?”

A political start to the day – no idea what this will be like, but let’s hope it’s good.

UPDATE: Verbatim text of women in interviews combined with politicians’ comments on the role of women in society and the dangers faced daily from men. Extremely well staged, great use of video projections and two first rate performances. Take note of the trigger warnings; many of the things said in this production shake you to the core. A thrilling, appalling and vital work. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

13.25 – In Her Defence, The Space on North Bridge.

“London, 1947. A man is dead. His wife has killed him. As a court hears the evidence leading up to the murder, you’ll witness the disintegration of the couple’s marriage and discover the real, surprising truth.”

This sounds like a good old-fashioned court drama, and done well they can be unbeatable. So this could be great!

UPDATE: This Christie-style thriller has all the elements of a deceptively simple tale; extremely well written and pretty well told. It’s all taken at a leisurely to moderate pace, but that gives you time to try to solve the crime before the trial wraps up. You’re invited to spot all the Christie references in the plot – I got 4, but some of them are very loose! Good fun and engrossing. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

15.50 – Candy, Underbelly Bristo Square.

“Do you believe in love at first sight? Will has fallen hopelessly in love with the seductive singer, Candy. The only problem: she’s his best mate in drag. As Will struggles to make sense of his newfound feelings, his life crumbles at the fringes. Should he seize life by his bollocks and tell Candy how he feels? Can he ever be with her? And what does loving her really mean? The sell-out London comedy-drama returns to the Fringe after a special online performance last year. ‘A raw exploration of love and identity’ ***** (Indiependent.co.uk). ‘Truly captivating’ **** (TheatreScotland.com).”

A funny twist on an old tale – this could be excellent. Here’s hoping.

UPDATE: Brilliant storytelling, both in Tim Fraser’s riveting play and Michael Waller’s spellbinding performance. At first, I thought the content of the play was going to position itself as some kind of analogy or symbol. But then I quickly decided it wasn’t that, it was just a straightforward story about a man falling in love with his mate, but only when Billy presents himself as Candy. Fascinating, thought-provoking, at times hilarious, at times deeply sad. We absolutely loved it. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

17.55 – An Evening Without Kate Bush, Assembly George Square Studios.

“Howl with the hounds and dance on the moors! Kate’s not there, but you are. Following its sold-out 2019 Fringe premiere, touring and a Soho Theatre season, this smash-hit, award-winning show returns! Sarah-Louise Young and Russell Lucas pay glorious homage to the music, fans and mythology of one of the most influential voices in music. ‘You don’t need to be a Kate Bush fan to be transported into something very special’ **** (Scotsman). ‘Reinventing the tribute act’ ***** (Stage). ‘Joyful’ **** (Daily Telegraph). ‘Magnificent’ ***** (Attitude).”

We had tickets for this at our local theatre and then Covid had other ideas. So I am delighted finally to be able to see this show, which I’ve heard is great.

UPDATE: I didn’t really know what to expect from this show, but you come away from it with a spring in your step and gladness in your heart, as Sarah-Louise Young beguiles you into the world of Kate Bush fandom, presents some of her best loved songs in ways you have never seen before, and makes you desperate to go back to your old LPs before the night is out. She also does a pretty amazing vocal impersonation! Very inclusive and hugely enjoyable. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

21.00 – Nish Kumar: Your Power, Your Control, Assembly George Square.

“It has been a period of upheaval and uncertainty with COVID and the political situation. You will be amazed by my capacity to somehow take all these things personally. Your Power, Your Control is a new show from the former host of Late Night Mash Report and one of The Guardian’s Top Top Fifty Comedians of the 21st Century. ‘Political zingers delivered with fizzing energy’ (Independent). ‘Kumar is the smartest, and often the silliest, political comic we’ve got: acute, furious and often the ridiculous fall guy of his own jokes’ ***** (Guardian).”

Another big comedy name that we’re finally going to be ticking off the list! It will be interesting to see if Nish Kumar is accomplished live as he is on TV.

UPDATE: Nish Kumar comes across as a naturally funny guy but also an angry one; years of racism have taken its toll on his mental health, and he shares some of that journey with us – and you get the feeling that the journey is far from over. But it’s not all doom and gloom – in fact it’s 98% hilarious observations about politics, terrible gigs and how much he loves Ricky Gervais and Jimmy Carr*. An occasionally bruising (and aggressive!) watch, but always rewarding.

*not strictly true. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Edinburgh Fringe Full Monty (nearly) – Day 19, 23rd August 2022

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Wanna know what’s scheduled for today in Edinburgh?

Here’s the schedule for 23rd August:

11.30 – Death of an Author, Greenside @ Nicolson Square. From the Edinburgh Fringe website:

“What if your favourite characters didn’t quite like the way they were written? What if they decided enough was enough? When an unnamed author is found dead, his characters are brought in for questioning. And they all have motive. Death of an Author is a celebration of untold female stories and a murder mystery like nothing you’ve seen before… come solve the crime in Edinburgh! Will you catch the killer?”

This sounds like a fascinating play – I often think that it’s the characters who are in charge of a book. It will be interesting to see if this play agrees with me!

UPDATE: A very clever premise,  excellent performances, extremely well written, and surprisingly moving. Lots to think about – and truly intriguing for literature buffs! I shan’t reveal who murdered the author…. but no jury would convict! I also liked how the detective did a spot of mansplaining! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

13.40 – Man of 100 Faces, Gilded Balloon Teviot.

“One performer. 100 characters. One hour. Impossible? Not for The Man of 100 Faces. This is the unbelievably true story of Sir Paul Dukes. A child runaway who, with just three weeks’ training, was made head of MI6 in Russia during the bloodiest year of the Revolution. He’s the man that nearly defeated Lenin. The man that first brought yoga to the UK. He’s a master of disguise, the original inspiration for Bond and the only British spy ever to be knighted. But can The Man of 100 Faces unmask who he really is?”

This could be brilliant – or it might be a bit iffy. Only one way to find out!

UPDATE: The story of Paul Dukes. Never heard of him before, and he sounds like one helluva guy. But it needs a larger venue for the loud and physical performance that Saul Boyer gives. In the middle of the front row, we felt  uncomfortable, were sprayed with sweat, and constantly bellowed at. I’m sure that three or four rows back it would have been much more enjoyable. Tremendous commitment from the performer, but our own personal experience was not one I could recommend. ⭐️⭐️⭐️

15.55 – Messiah, Underbelly Bristo Square.

“Jesus tells his disciples: ‘the Messiah will never come, so we have to create one’. An intense and darkly provocative retelling of the myths and realities surrounding the rise and fall of Christ. Fusing realism and surrealism, history and the present, poetry and vulgarity, we enter a beguiling picture of the last days of Jesus’ life and those that surround him. A cast of four play multiple characters, moving between ensemble, monologue and song. Includes nudity.”

This is another intriguing show – a blank canvas on which anything could be written. Let’s hope it’s good!

UPDATE: Very good, thought provoking play, as you would expect from the pen of Steven Berkoff. We particularly enjoyed the brainstorming session on how to make the resurrection really work!  Very good performances, lots of fourth walk breaking, well worth seeing – and deserves a larger audience. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

18.00 – Rosie Holt: The Woman’s Hour, Pleasance Courtyard.

“Social media sensation and Chortle Award winner Rosie Holt debuts an hour of character comedy based on her hit satirical videos. A right-wing “opinionist” distorting the news, an MP desperately defending a failing government, a left-winger wanting to say the right thing but scared of getting it wrong. These characters and more come together when their creator accidentally becomes the news, as they try to speak their truth whatever the facts. ‘If she can stay in character long enough, she’ll have a Telegraph column and a seat on Question Time by teatime’ (James O’Brien).”

Can’t wait to see this. Rosie Holt’s tweets are a thing of genius. This is going to be amazing!

UPDATE: Will the real Rosie Holt stand up? Very good use of video, and virtually 100% new material, which I wasn’t expecting. I liked the confusion of who is Rosie and who isn’t, super interaction with the audience, and all in all an extremely funny hour. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

21.15 – Foil Arms and Hog – Hogwash, Underbelly Bristo Square.

“Ireland’s top sketch comedy group. With over 500 million online views the internet sensations return to McEwan Hall to premiere their new show, Hogwash. A mix of sketch comedy, audience participation and improvisation. Best reviewed show at the Edinburgh Fringe 2018 and 2019. Sold out 2009-2019. ‘Quite simply, a sensation’ (Edinburgh Festivals Magazine). ‘Very funny show’ (Rowan Atkinson). ‘Hilarious lads’ (Kevin Bridges). ‘An effervescent hour of fast-paced gags, fizzing with energy, invention and great lines’ (Chortle.co.uk). **** (Times). ***** (Irish Examiner). ***** (BroadwayBaby.com). ***** (Metro). ***** (EdFestMag.com).”

Foil, Arms and Hog are another of the terrific acts that bring us back to Edinburgh year after year. They’re always fantastic, and know they will be again.

UPDATE: At first we wondered if Foil Arms and Hog had reached their pinnacle, and were beginning to lose their way a little. A very long get-to-know the audience introduction (vital for later material) followed by a too-long sketch based on a ghost story experience, meant that half the show had already gone before we started getting into the really good material, but rest assured it’s as good as ever. I loved the suitcases on the carousel, and the long lost reunions were inspired. Three genuinely hilarious guys – you don’t get better sketch comedy. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Edinburgh Fringe Full Monty (nearly) – Day 18, 22nd August 2022

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Let me tell you what we’ve got lined up in Edinburgh today!

Here’s the schedule for 22nd August:

10.20 – 50 Ways to Leave Your Employer, Laughing  Horse @ City Cafe. From the Edinburgh Fringe website:

“The Great Resignation? We call it The Great Escape! Join hilarious Brits abroad Jess Bauldry and Sharon VS to hear how they broke out from the 9 to 5 and their musings on the meaning of work. There’s also a ukulele. Good luck! This is stand-up for grown-ups that shows that adult themes doesn’t have to mean dick jokes. Our show re-examines the workplace through the female gaze. It is uproarious, educational and cathartic.”

Sounds like a fun and refreshing way to start the day!

UPDATE: A bright and funny start to the day, with two stand up sets and a career change clinic added for good measure. Lots of great material; a very good morning laugh. ⭐️⭐️⭐️

12.50 – Hotel Elsinore, The Space on the Mile.

“Denmark. 2am. A hotel room. Three weary travellers, an unexpected will and a production of Hamlet to rehearse before morning. Tragedy and humour blend in this new play about the challenges of family, forgiveness and Shakespeare. Written and performed by award-winning actor Susanna Hamnett, featuring her son and daughter, Joshua and Lily MacGregor. Susanna Hamnett: ‘A virtuosic performer’ (New York Times). ‘A mighty theatrical force’ (Press and Journal). Joshua MacGregor’s The Teeth of Haros: ‘One of the best-written theatre scripts I have seen during my time at the Fringe’ (BritishTheatreGuide.info).”

Yet another way of putting a new twist on Shakespeare – but I’m up for that, no question!

UPDATE:A mother with issues, two tired teenagers and Dad’s ashes in an urn turn up at a hotel in Denmark at 2 am, then receives phone call inviting them to perform a production of Hamlet the next morning. An all-night rehearsal follows. I won’t tell you the final plot twist, but it completely bamboozled me with its sheer oddness. Sometimes you just “get” a play, and sometimes you don’t. I didn’t get this at all. Not to say there aren’t some nice moments, but I couldn’t see the point of it. It all felt like an exercise in futility. If they’d simply decided to do a three-person Hamlet, it could have worked really well. But embedding it inside a framework of visiting Elsinore with some ashes is pure distraction. Not for me, this one. ⭐️⭐️

15.00 – Olaf Falafel: STOAT, Laughing Horse @ The Pear Tree.

“Olaf Falafel is the holder of ‘Dave’s Best Joke Of The Fringe’ but more importantly he is also the holder of ‘Person Whose Show Description You Are Currently Reading And Are Tempted To Book Tickets For’. Olaf guarantees two things – it will be stupid and it will be funny.”

It isn’t Edinburgh without Olaf. He’s one of the funniest guys anywhere! I think I’ve already worked out what STOAT stands for.

UPDATE: I was right about the meaning of Stoat! I  won’t tell you the twist to Olaf’s tale but, sadly it’s something of a downer, even though he tries his absolute best for it to be something positive. In all the appearances  we’ve seen him before, this is the first time he hasn’t just sailed through on a sea of delightful silliness. Still loads to laugh at, of course, but it doesn’t quite hit the spot in the same way as previous shows. Don’t let this put you off though! Four stars is a very good rating! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

20.30 –  Robin Morgan: Snip Snip, Bitch (Work In Progress), Laughing Horse @ The Counting House.

“Robin Morgan (as seen on Mock The Week) has an hour of new jokes and stories. Writer for The Mash Report, 8 Out of 10 Cats and Have I Got News For You. Tour Support for Ellie Taylor, Rachel Parris and Iain Stirling. Warm-up for The Graham Norton Show. ‘Bloody funny. He must surely be on the verge of nationwide fame’ (Chortle.co.uk). **** (Sunday Times).”

We saw Robin Morgan at the Leicester Comedy Festival a couple of years ago and his was the best show we saw – so I’m hopeful for something great!

UPDATE: Robin is even slicker and funnier now than he was when we saw him in Leicester! There’s no real narrative thread to his act, it’s just observations and memories and quirkinesses, all of which somehow combine together to create a very satisfying whole. He’s so very likeable and persuasive; you end up letting your guard down and telling him things you’d normally keep under your hat. Absolutely brilliant! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Edinburgh Fringe Full Monty (nearly) – Day 17, 21st August 2022

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Have I got some Edinburgh shows for you? Yes, I have!

Here’s the schedule for 21st August:

12.15 – Mat Ricardo: The Extraordinary Gentleman, Gilded Balloon Teviot. From the Edinburgh Fringe website:

“A unique, hilarious and unmissable one-man show from the worlds most critically acclaimed variety artist. Scalpel-sharp wit and astonishing skills honed over three decades travelling the world’s stages, streets and spiegeltents come together to create an unforgettable hour of big tricks and big laughs for all ages. ‘One of the greatest variety artists working today’ (Scotsman). ‘The most talented man at the Edinburgh Fringe’ (BroadwayBaby.com). ‘Breathtaking’ (Evening Standard). ‘Terrific’ (Guardian). ‘The Derren Brown of juggling’ (LoveFringe.com). ‘Mat Ricardo is amazing!’ (HRH Prince Charles).”

I’ve seen Mat Ricardo a couple of times as part of the Burlesque Show that used to come to the Royal and Derngate in Northampton, and he was always superb. It’ll be good to see him in a full show by himself!

UPDATE: Good to see Mat Ricardo again – his juggling skills are second to none. A few gasp out loud moments – he said there would be. Whilst he’s technically brilliant, I’m slightly less sure of his ability to host a complete hour with his presentation style, but that’s just me. Nevertheless, it was thoroughly entertaining, and the hour flew by. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

14.05 – Fritz and Matlock, Pleasance Courtyard.

“In a Sheffield basement, two men try to bury the bodies of their past to find a hopeful future. With no way out, will Fritz make it to his wedding? Will Matlock get away with murder? Or will the police finally raid the marijuana grow in the attic? A new dark comedy with a fresh take on men’s mental health, the care system and addiction. 2021 Offie nominees for Lead Performances and Most Promising New Playwrights. ‘Reminiscent of the works of Beckett and Pinter’ ***** (TheReviewsHub.com). **** (Stage).”

As well as Beckett and Pinter, this sounds rather Ortonesque, which is what drew my attention! Fingers crossed that it works well.

UPDATE: Definitely Pinteresque; not so much Beckett and definitely not Orton. Two excellent performances in an intriguing play with a clever twist that I certainly didn’t see coming, and I definitely won’t tell you about! Not sure that the plot was entirely watertight, and there were a couple of scenes that weren’t sufficiently clear for us to understand. But the acting certainly carries the day, and the play is definitely worth seeing. ⭐️⭐️⭐️

16.00 – Afghanistan Is Not Funny by Henry Naylor, Gilded Balloon Teviot.

“In 2002, whilst researching a comedy, triple-Fringe First winner Henry Naylor and two-time Scottish Press Photographer of the Year Sam Maynard, went to the Afghan war zone. An extraordinary tale ensued in which they were threatened by a war criminal, captured by the Mujahideen and nearly blown up by the Taliban. Performed by Naylor himself, the show takes us back to the start of the modern Afghan tragedy. It comes direct from the Adelaide Fringe, where it won twelve five-star reviews and two major awards. European Premiere.”

This sounds like a truly fascinating mix of dark comedy and true tragedy. But it’s considered a hit, so that’s good enough for me!

UPDATE: A fascinating and very personal account of Henry Naylor’s time in Afghanistan, coupled with some extraordinary photographs that speak volumes, are at the heart of this slightly unbalanced show. Whilst everything to do with Afghanistan in this hour totally captures your interest and imagination, the framework surrounding it, with his dealings with the Gilded Balloon, and his psychotherapist, largely miss the mark. But it’s a very intense and thought provoking show. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

18.00 – Tim Vine: Breeeep! Pleasance Courtyard.

“Tim Vine returns with his new stand-up show. A mountain of nonsense. One-liners, stupid things, unlikely songs, wobbly props. (Plus utter drivel.) Tim’s like the manager of a sweet shop where all the sweets are replaced by jokes, and he serves them in the order he chooses. So, it’s like a sweet shop where the manager just throws sweets at you. Winner of Dave’s Best Joke of the Fringe 2010 and 2014. Star of The Tim Vine Chat Show (BBC Radio 4) and numerous TV appearances. Enjoy the foolishness. Then leave. ‘A symphony of silly’ ***** (Times).”

It’s been the sin of omission that we’ve never seen Tim Vine live before, so I’m sure this will be magnificent!

UPDATE: Having realised we’ve only seen Tim Vine in short spurts on TV we became concerned that a full hour of him might be too much. And so it proved. The relentless silliness quickly palled with us, and whilst others guffawed throughout, we only chuckled occasionally. As Mrs C noted, she wasn’t expecting it to be quite so *infantile*. Not for us, but I completely accept that he went down a storm with others! ⭐️⭐️⭐️

21.00 – Ballet Freedom, Pleasance @ EICC.

“Spectacular world renowned ballet company journey from Kyiv. Freedom Ballet celebrate their 20th anniversary in Edinburgh with 14 incredible dancers. An outstanding dance collective. Their intimate, sensual ballet is astonishing. This adaptation of their hit show Boudoir is about the moment of life, when knowing yourself, your love and your loss, you can truly see yourself in the mirror. Credits include performing with Franco Dragone, legendary director of Cirque de Soleil, and sharing the stage with Dita Von Teese, Queen of Burlesque Cabaret. Sold out tours in more than 30 countries with over 5,000 performances.”

Given the appalling situation in Ukraine I can only believe that this will be a truly emotional performance. I’m sure it will be a rewarding dance experience too.

UPDATE: Audience reviews online were about 75-25 in favour of this show, but those who didn’t like it *really* didn’t like it! We thought it was terrific; inventive, dynamic choreography, danced with joy and skill, frequently very tongue in cheek, lots of dark humour and even a few instances of audience participation (and don’t think by not sitting in the front you’re safe – you’re not!) Invasion by a hostile neighbour was tastefully suggested in a few of the dances. I was very disappointed at the amount of photography and videoing from audience members, which was extremely disrespectful of both the performers and other audience members. But we loved the show! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Edinburgh Fringe Full Monty (nearly) – Day 16, 20th August 2022

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Another day in Edinburgh heavy on comedy!

Here’s the schedule for 20th August:

12.00 – Joe Wells: I Am Autistic, PBH’s Free Fringe @ Banshee Labyrinth. From the Edinburgh Fringe website:

“Joe is not a “person with comedy”; he’s a comedian. Nor is he a “person with autism”; he’s autistic. His video Having a Brother Who is Not Autistic went viral, with over 2 million views. Support for Frankie Boyle and Alexei Sayle. ‘Some of the most surprising and thought-provoking material coming from any comedian’ (Guardian). As seen on BBC Two’s Ouch! Storytelling Live, BBC Three’s Quickies and Dave’s Comedy Guide to Life. Writer for Have I Got News For You. A show about being proud of your weird brain.”

We first saw Joe Wells at the Fringe a few years ago on the strength of word of mouth and were blown away by his brilliant incisive observations. We never miss a chance to see him! I’m sure this will be as good as ever.

UPDATE: Always one of our favourite comedians, Joe is on fantastic form with a show that gives rise to pretty much non stop laughter, mainly about autism – and yes I know it sounds unlikely. He’s a truly gifted comedian, with a beautifully crafted set, and there’s no better way to start your Fringe day! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

14.45 – Trevor Lock’s New Show, PBH’s Free Fringe @ Bannermans.

“The UK’s number-one comedian returns to the Fringe with a brand-new show that, as usual, will probably be entirely different each day. ‘Blew me away – an absolute masterclass in comedy performance’ ***** (Scotsman). ‘The most fun you can have without taking your clothes off’ (Mirror).”

Trevor Lock is new to us, so it’s a bit of a punt but he gets good reviews, so here’s hoping!

UPDATE no 1: in a change to the advertised programme, we’re going to see Oleg Denisov, Escaped Artist, instead!

UPDATE no 2: Oleg’s a funny guy, with great material, solid, reliable delivery, and I liked how he looked the Ukrainian conflict head-on, there’s no point trying to deny or ignore it.  Plenty of good jokes that stem from being a foreigner, living overseas, trying to make a living from comedy. He’s also trying to be feminist, which creates more comic delights. Very good indeed. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

16.15 – Richard Stott: Afterparty, Underbelly Bristo Square.

“Richard Stott returns to the Fringe with a brand-new show filled with trademark storytelling and joyously acerbic one liners. The runner-up in Dave’s Jokes of the Fringe 2019 talks about stripping down for a documentary, club nights that turned into afterparties and then into crime scenes, and finally starting to grow up and beginning to like the adult he’s become. All while living with a disability… perhaps. As seen on ITV2’s Stand Up Sketch Show. ‘Definitely one to watch out for’ (BroadwayBaby.com). ‘Thoroughly enjoyable’ (Skinny). ‘Reminiscent of Jonathan Pie’ (ThreeWeeks).”

More comedy, again from someone we don’t know but again they get good reviews. You have to take a risk in Edinburgh!

UPDATE: First of all, I see absolutely no similarity between Jonathan Pie and Richard Stott! A very well structured show, where Richard is coming to terms with being in his mid-30s without being ready to accept it yet. Afterparty becomes a metaphor for those bleak years after the fun of your 20s. Likeable and easy to identify with, Richard has a good attacking style, although some of the material could do with a bit of sharpening up. Nevertheless, very enjoyable! ⭐️⭐️⭐️

18.40 – Pear, Underbelly, Cowgate.

“You have a one in 250 chance of being an identical twin, so for Hugo and Patrick McPherson, they started life by being a bit unusual. And that’s not all: 6’8″, benders of the truth, and standing at 6’7″, these enormous twins now launch their debut show, Pear. A riotous, absurd and hilarious collection of sketch comedy and wacky characters. There was originally cultural commentary; it got cut for time. But it was as brave as much as it is now not in the show. An unapologetically original hour of comedy.”

Fringe favourite Patrick McPherson, whom we’ve already seen once this Fringe, returns with his brother for a series of sketches.

UPDATE: “Are there twins in the audience, oh oh, oh oh, are there any twins in?” 🎵 🎵 I guarantee you’ll be singing that for ages.

Patrick and Hugo do an amazing double act, with a nicely structured, incredibly silly, beautifully funny show, with perfect callbacks and audience interaction. You don’t stop beaming from start to finish! Is there nothing these McPhersons can’t do?! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

21.15 – Adults Only Magic Show, Assembly George Square Studios.

“Winner of Best Magic Show and Adelaide Fringe Weeklies. Prepare to be wowed out of your seats in this jam-packed, 18+ spectacular! Featuring an array of raucous comedy, mind-bending illusions and a cheeky hint of nudity seen on stages all across the globe! The Penn & Teller of Australia! ***** (GlamAdelaide.com.au). ‘Wildly hilarious, wonderfully confident and wickedly inappropriate!’ ***** (TheatreTravels.org). ‘This duo is a force to be reckoned with!’ ***** (WeekendNotes.co.uk). ‘Magic at its finest and funniest! **** (FringeFeed, FringeWorld.com.au).”

Always up for a bit of naughty magic! This show has been going for some time but we’ve never seen it – first time for everything.

UPDATE: Sam and Justin have put together some amazing magic and framed it within this “adult only” naughty presentation, to the delight of everyone. Very funny, very naughty and very incredible! Not a clue as to how any of it was done. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

23.20 – A Shoddy Detective and the Art of Deception, The Space on North Bridge.

“A bumbling detective is called upon to uncover the mystery of a priceless stolen painting, but when he cannot solve it himself he is forced to enlist the help of an old nemesis. Together, the pair must interrogate the many characterful suspects that reside at the manor, in order to catch the conniving culprit and solve the crime of the century. A multi-roling, slapstick comedy bringing the classics of comedy to the 21st century. **** (LondonPubTheatres.com).”

From the comedy whodunit genre – let’s hope it’s more hit than miss!

UPDATE: They may call themselves Shoddy Theatre, but there’s nothing shoddy about this brilliant piece of nonsensical, physical theatre, packed with terrifically ludicrous scenes, hilarious characterisations, knockabout humour and superb stage fighting! Loved every minute of it. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Edinburgh Fringe Full Monty (nearly) – Day 15, 19th August 2022

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Big day today!

Here’s the schedule for 19th August:

11.40 – 100 Seconds to Midnight, Greenside @ Infirmary Street. From the Edinburgh Fringe website:

“John and May were sixth form lovers, they haven’t seen each other in five years. One evening, the end of the world is announced. In a moment of lonely panic, May calls John. Can she come over? Five weeks later, the world is still standing but the pair are trapped in John’s studio apartment. They go back and forth between moments of apocalypse-fuelled panic to humorous distractions with cacti, kittens and condoms. The latter becomes responsible for the pair’s final descent into a downward spiral.”

I’m not entirely certain about this one, but you have to take lots of risks in Edinburgh. Hopefully Talkers and Doers, who produce this show, won’t let us down!

UPDATE: Interesting concept, and believable story line. Unfortunately one of the characters is very unlikeable – a cruel bully – which makes it hard to identify with them or indeed care much about what happens to them. The script was good, but the performers were shoutier than necessary for a small venue. Not bad though. ⭐️⭐️

13.30 – 9 Circles, Assembly George Square Studios.

“How can a soldier be trained to be a cold-blooded killing machine while clinging on to the threads of humanity? A Dantesque descent into the conundrums, contradictions and hypocrisies of war through the eyes of a convicted war criminal. Based on real events, this taut psychological thriller seeks justice from the collision of morality and empathy. A European premiere from multi award-winning House of Cards writer Bill Cain, directed by Olivier winner, Guy Masterson, (Morecambe, Shark Is Broken), starring Joshua Collins, Samara Neely Cohen (Snatched!) and Fringe favourite, Stage Award and multiple Fringe First winner David Calvitto.”

This was one of The Guardian’s shows to watch, so who am I to disagree?

UPDATE: A very powerful, intense, play following the experiences of a soldier who had committed atrocities in Iraq, examining his motivations and legal defence. At our performance, two of the roles (including the main character) were played by understudies, and they did a great job. Emphasising the recent case of a Russian soldier in Ukraine, Kalush Orchestra’s Eurovision winner Stefania was the playout music! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

15.40 – Michael Spicer: The Room Next Door Assembly George Square Studios.

“Join the creator of The Room Next Door in this final run at the Edinburgh Fringe after a successful sell-out tour as he talks about making comedy under the radar and the dangers of social media fame, as well as performing exclusive sketches as the viral sensation. The Room Next Door sketches have amassed over 60m views online, appeared on The Late Late Show with James Corden, and the spin-off radio series has twice won the British Comedy Guide Award for Best Radio Sitcom. ‘Genius’ (Richard Herring). **** (Guardian).”

Twitter hero Michael Spicer’s brilliant videos never fail to make you laugh so I hope this live show does the same!

UPDATE: I was uncertain how Michael Spicer’s hilarious online character would transfer to a live stage, and he probably presented it the best way it could be, with a live performance of some of his greatest hits. Nevertheless, the show still relies on pre-recorded material a lot, but is still very funny. ⭐️⭐️⭐️

17.30 – Shamilton Assembly George Square Studios.

“Comedy supergroup Baby Wants Candy presents improvised hip-hop homage to Hamilton! After sold-out runs in Chicago, NY and LA, Shamilton comes to the Fringe! Join Shamilton as we improvise an epic musical based on a historical figure/celebrity of your choosing (Genghis Khan, Paul Hollywood, Kim Kardashian, anyone!). Shamilton is just like Hamilton but (ahem) better! Expect the same level of hip hop, incredible songs, moving storytelling, stunning choreography and powerhouse singing, except made up on the spot. ‘One of the top-five comedy shows to catch’ (New York Times). It’s the show Lin-Manuel Miranda calls ‘cease and desist!’”

We’re massive fans of Hamilton, so this seemed like an obvious choice. I just hope it works!

UPDATE: How would this troupe create a hiphop musical about a character chosen by the audience? Brilliant performance and improv with the inspired audience choice of Paddington Bear!! Absolutely hilarious. The Browns needed sexual counselling, and The Queen was called on to prevent Hugh Grant and Nicole Kidman from demolishing their house. Completely nuts and completely wonderful! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

20.10 – Dr Hammond’s Covid Inquiry, The Space @ Symposium Hall.

“Private Eye’s MD and best-selling author of Dr Hammond’s Covid Casebook dissects the pandemic. The more certain someone is about Covid, the less you should trust them. Do we know what went right and wrong? Could we have prevented it? Why are experts so polarised? Can you trust a leader who petrifies the people while partying? Should we have copied Sweden? Or Taiwan? Have vaccines saved us? Will we be kinder to animals and children? Are pandemics here to stay? Can we disagree without hate? Warning. May contain traces of doubt, compassion, humour, nuance and batshit.”

If anyone can make sense of the Covid pandemic, Dr Phil Hammond can. We’ve seen his live shows before and he’s always challenging as well as entertaining. Should be a good one!

UPDATE: Dr Phil presents an excellent comedy lecture, packed with fascinating facts and opinions, jokes and observations – it’s almost as though Covid has never gone away (winking emoji). It’s also interesting to share your own covid experiences and beliefs with other audience members. Very enjoyable! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

21.40 – Frank Skinner: 30 Years of Dirt, Assembly Roxy.

“A highly anticipated brand-new hour from comic legend Frank Skinner, ‘King of stand-up’ (Bruce Dessau, Evening Standard), following his sell-out hit Showbiz. ‘Frank Skinner has funny bones… even at the top of the comedy tree it’s rare to see his sort of fast-thinking but slow-talking instinctual wit…’ (Dominic Maxwell, Times). ‘Doing what he does best… the gags just keep on coming. Stand-up’s coming home’ (Mark Wareham, Mail on Sunday). ‘Skinner is warm, impeccable company and his way with a punchline is masterful… a delight’ (Paul Fleckney, Guardian).”

UPDATE: Frank Skinner’s show has sadly been cancelled, so we’re going to see Christian Brighty’s Playboy instead!

UPDATE 2: Christian Brighty’s Playboy is a marvellous comic creation, incapable of resisting sexual temptation from anyone and everyone in the audience. A lovely, light, frothy storyline, and the audience is put on the spot as to whether the Playboy is a sexist pig or one of the lads – you decide. Very inventive audience participation – our game audience members were brilliant. Recommended. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Edinburgh Fringe Full Monty (nearly) – Day 14, 18th August 2022

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How about a list of today’s shows?

Here’s the schedule for 18th August:

10.00 – Shakespeare for Breakfast, C Arts C Venues C Aquila. From the Edinburgh Fringe website:

“The Bardic Breakfasters are back! C’s sensational Shakespearience returns for our 31st Fringe, with free coffee and croissants! A pleasing plethora of pentameter, puns and pastry. Perfect for hardened fans of the Bard and blank verse virgins alike. ‘A bouncy and boisterous take on Willie’s work’ (List). ‘Well worth getting out of bed for’ (Independent). ‘No holds Bard (FringeGuru.com). ‘Irreverent humour… clever’ (Stage). ‘Side-splitting… glorious’ (BroadwayBaby.com). ‘Full of fun’ (RemoteGoat.com). ‘Sizzling’ (Scottish Daily Express). Free coffee and croissants! Book early.”

Starting off with an old favourite, Shakespeare for Breakfast is consistently one of the funniest shows of the Fringe and never fails to make you laugh your socks off. Don’t know which of the Bard’s works will be this year’s target – but it’s gonna be good.

UPDATE: Oh dear, oh dear, oh dear. The fabulous four who brought us Shakespeare for Breakfast are no longer here, instead they have sold the brand to three others whom I doubt saw the originals. Comparisons are odious, but sadly this isn’t a patch on the previous product. SFB used to be thrilling, outrageous, nonsensical, hilarious. This is very polite, subdued, and strangely disengaging. It doesn’t help that very few people are familiar enough with The Winter’s Tale to enjoy the comedy of recognition. A few nice ideas and comedy songs but it left us cold I’m afraid. ⭐️⭐️

11.30 – Accost Your Imposter and Empower Your Power: An Interactive Life Coaching Seminar With Genevieve de Beauvoir, Just the Tonic at the Mash House.

“Troubled? Weak? Feel like a fraud? Good. Genevieve de Beauvoir is a fully-qualified life coach* and will be launching her exciting new e-book on imposter syndrome at the Fringe! Imposter syndrome is a clinical lifelong brain disease that affects at least 100% of women and occasional men. In this seminar, Genevieve will offer heart-healing, interactive** life coaching for any audience members with imposter issues and other shameful flaws (incest and hygiene problems are not in her remit). *Certificate available upon request. **To an extent.”

Potentially the longest title of the Fringe, I’m looking forward to this mock psycho-session (assuming that’s what it is!)

UPDATE No 1: Sadly, at 11:50 Ms de Beauvoir hadn’t shown up and the staff at the Mash House told us to apply to the Box Office – progress pending. So instead we booked tickets to see Benji Waterstones “You Don’t Have to be Mad to Work Here”. Always important to be flexible at the Fringe!

UPDATE No 2: Benji read us passages from his to-be-published book; some were very funny, some kind of went nowhere. With the best will in the world, and fully aware this was work in progress, we weren’t entirely sure there was a show to be created here. Hope we’re wrong. ⭐️⭐️

14.20 – Speed Dial, Pleasance Dome.

“Amongst the spires, spikes and sideburns of a 1970s university, a lonely Professor awaits a call. When he’s chased by the ringing of every passing phone, an ominous voice sets a series of mysterious puzzles that stand between him and his missing daughter. Dodgy deans, grumbling groundskeepers and swotty students are suspects as the Professor capers across campus to uncover whodunnit and why. Set to the sounds of 70s vinyl, multi-award winners Spies Like Us bring their explosively physical comedy-thriller about connection, forgiveness… and cryptic crosswords. ‘Singin’ in the Rain meets Hitchcock’ **** (TheReviewsHub.com).”

Sounds like a fun comedy caper – so I’m giving it the benefit of the doubt with a punt.

UPDATE: Firstly the music is great. The show itself is very original, with very committed performances and the crossword solving aspect of the show was entertaining. However, the play itself was very tiresome, incredibly complicated and extraordinarily and unnecessarily noisy! ⭐️⭐️

16.15 – Rob Madge: My Son’s a Queer (But What Can You Do), Underbelly George Square.

“When Rob was 12, they attempted a full-blown Disney parade in their house for their grandma. As Rob donned wigs and played Mary Poppins, Ariel, Mickey Mouse and Belle, their dad doubled as stage manager, sound technician and Goofy. This is the joyous, chaotic, autobiographical story of actor, writer and social-media sensation Rob Madge as they set out to recreate that parade – and this time, nobody, no, nobody is gonna rain on it. Winner of What’s On Stage’s Best Off-West End Production 2022.”

I’ve heard great things about Rob Madge and his show, so it was a no-brainer that we have to see this for ourselves!

UPDATE: With a powerful voice and a huge personality Rob Madge is a star in the making! A feelgood journey through the trials and tribulations of his childhood, accompanied by vhs footage of his living room shows, aided and abetted by his tireless dad. Very entertaining and rewarding! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

19.00 – Hamlet with Ian McKellen, Ashton Hall, St Stephens, Stockbridge.

“Ian McKellen and Peter Schaufuss will collaborate and perform together at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in the world premiere of Hamlet with a whole new performance concept, adapted from William Shakespeare’s play.”

Surely the hottest ticket of the Fringe! Let’s hope it delivers everything it promises.

UPDATE:Ignore those 2* reviews. They clearly don’t understand the concept of Ballet. This is a stunning piece, superb choreography, meticulously danced, that tells the story of Hamlet clearly and thoroughly. The Prince of Denmark is split into two: one, the vocal nervous wreck played by McKellen, the other, the man who moves, played by an extraordinary dancer. I particularly loved Ophelia’s dances, and Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are a delight. Fabulous lighting and sound too. My toes curled with pleasure throughout! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Edinburgh Fringe Full Monty (nearly) – Day 13, 17th August 2022

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Fewer shows today as we’re meeting up with family!

Here’s the schedule for 17th August:

10.45 – Pundemic, Laughing Horse @ The Three Sisters. From the Edinburgh Fringe website:

“From running an online pun show gaining hundreds of thousands of views to the culmination of an appearance on Britain’s Got Talent, a lot has happened over the last two years for this prolific pun-producing comedian from Glasgow. Join him as he presents the best of his puns as written all through this Pundemic. UK Pun Championship finalist (2017, 2018, 2020, 2022). ChampiPUNship runner-up 2019. UK Pun Off Puntest of Champions runner up 2021. ‘Corny’ (David Walliams). ‘Scotland’s Prince of Puns’ (Johnny Beattie). ‘Likeable and a funny guy’ (Alesha Dixon).”

An hour of puns with Iain MacDonald. What’s not to like?

UPDATE: A fun and entertaining way to start the day, with Iain MacDonald delivering exactly what it says on the can. My only criticism is that his delivery style is quiet and measured; all the other punsters I have seen deliver their material fast and furious, with no time for you to reflect before moving on to the next joke. So, it could be a little punchier (geddit?) but it was still very enjoyable. ⭐️⭐️⭐️

16.45 – Magical Bones: Soulful Magic, Assembly Checkpoint.

“Following a totally sold-out debut in 2019, the Britain’s Got Talent finalist returns to the Fringe with ‘a dazzling show… full of imagination and flair’ **** (Guardian). Direct from appearances on America’s Penn & Teller: Fool Us, BBC One’s BAFTA Awards, ITV1’s This Morning and Sky’s Around The World in 80 Tricks, join Bones as he brings you a brand-new hour of the most awe-inspiring and high-energy magic you’ll see this year. ‘What’s happening on stage really is magic’ (Telegraph).”

This our first magic show of the Fringe; Mrs Chrisparkle isn’t always easily impressed by magic (whereas I gape open mouthed at the simplest tricks) so we’ll see how well Mr Bones entertains her!

UPDATE: A slick and skilful magic show, with a few breathtaking tricks, all nicely paced and amusingly presented. We *think* we worked out how he did one of his tricks, but the rest were pretty astounding. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

19.00 – Troy Hawke: Sigmund Troy’d! Underbelly Bristo Square.

“Last year he found the nefarious link between Ikea, the Nazis and Kanye West. Now 1930s throwback home-schooled investigator Troy Hawke returns to battle a new enemy on behalf of all people everywhere…psychotherapy! Leicester Comedy Festival Best Show nominee, 2022. Leicester Comedy Festival Best Show nominee, 2020. Perth Fringe World Comedy Weekly Award winner and main award shortlist, 2020. Perth Fringe World Comedy Weekly Award winner and main award shortlist, 2019. Total sell-out run Edinburgh Fringe, 2019. Top 40 best reviewed comedy shows at the Edinburgh Fringe in 2019.”

Milo McCabe’s brilliant creation Troy Hawke returns with a new show and he always effervesces with wit – I’m expecting nothing less this year.

UPDATE: Effortless characterisation, the mischievous Milo has formed a brilliant, creative set of material for Troy based on a random tweet that caught his imagination. With scrabble values, psychotherapy, magic numbers, shop greetings and pizza dedications, this is an extraordinarily detailed flight of fantasy. I know that by sitting in the front we were asking for it – and we got it. But so did many others! Fabulously funny! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

21.00 – Dog / Actor, Greenside @ Infirmary Street.

“Two hilarious and explosive plays written by Steven Berkoff, performed back-to-back by the same actor. Dog follows a day in the life of a racist football hooligan and his beloved pit bull terrier Roy, who changes his life. Actor is a spoken-word monologue which delves into the heart of the acting industry, humorously and poignantly portraying the trying life of a struggling artist. Without the use of any set or props, Dog / Actor presents a masterclass in physical theatre and comedic storytelling, promising a thrilling theatrical experience. ***** (BroadwayBaby.com). ***** (NorthWestEnd.co.uk). ***** (Everything-Theatre.co.uk).”

As soon as I saw this show in the listings, I knew I needed to see it. Stephen Smith is the actor (and dog) in question. I always like the works of Steven Berkoff so this is a must-see for me.

UPDATE: A true masterclass in acting from Stephen Smith in this Berkoff double bill. Berkoff’s superb writing demands excellent characterisations, and that’s exactly what Mr Smith delivers by the truckload. He’s also amazing with the physical theatre – in “Dog” particularly you really got a sense of the powerful and aggressive Roy. An enthralling show! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️