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The Edinburgh Fringe All Month Long – 22nd August 2024

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More adventure awaits us, let’s have a look.

Here’s the schedule for August 22nd.

12:00 – Josh Makinda Is Probably Fine, Just the Tonic at The Mash House. From the Edinburgh Fringe website:

“Josh Makinda is bringing his debut solo show to the Edinburgh Fringe! Australian, Kenyan-ethnicity, but NYC-based, Josh has been wowing audiences the world over with his unique brand of sharp wit, whip-smart ad-libs and colossal tales of life, wonder and unwellness. You are next! Come and laugh until your tummy hurts; his already does (IBS)! ‘…Josh Makinda had the audience in his palm… I laughed for a solid fifty minutes, you probably will too.’ (IsolatedNation.com). ‘Josh Makinda is a rarity… it’s comedy of the first order’ (The West Australian).”

We start the day with some comedy from a land down under. I’ve not heard of Josh Makinda before but he arrives with lots of complimentary notices, so I have good hopes of some comedy gold.

13:25 – The Ghost of White Hart Lane, Underbelly, Bristo Square.

“Spurs and Scotland star John White was one of the best footballers of the 1960s, however, in July 1964 he was struck by lightning and killed at 27 years old. From humble beginnings growing up just outside Edinburgh, through to football fame and his tragic death, the play shares John’s cheeky humour. It also follows the story of his son Rob White, who was just five months old when his dad died. Having premiered at Spurs Stadium, this follows on from the Sunday Times bestseller by Rob White and Julie Welch.”

I have never heard about the story of John White, but hopefully this play will provide a good insight into his achievements and be a fitting honour.

18:15 – Mark Row: A* in the Making – Revision Lesson, Laughing Horse @ The Hanover Tap.

“After 18 years as a teacher, Mark Row has had enough of the endless carousel of uninspiring lessons, inane questions and kids with attitudes that stink worse than their PE kits. So now he’s seeking a new life on stage, but will the glamorous world of stand-up comedy really prove to be much better? Mark Row returns to Edinburgh with tales from the classroom for anyone who has ever been a teacher, been to school, or who just likes laughing at children. An outstanding lesson in how entertain!”

On a number of times over the past few years we have so nearly seen Mark Row perform, but for some reason he has always missed out in the final reel. No excuses this time, so I hope he lives up to his reputation!

19:45 – Kelly Bachman: Patron Saint, Assembly Rooms.

“Patron Saint is an hour of stand-up about spirituality, sexuality, virality and why anyone is funny. More specifically, it’s an hour of stand-up by Kelly Bachman, a comedian and rape survivor who found herself with sudden notoriety after encountering serial predator Harvey Weinstein at a comedy show in New York. Kelly was then asked to talk to CNN, The Guardian and a documentary called Hysterical on FX/Hulu, too. Years later, Kelly still hears one recurring question: ‘Are you a comedian because of trauma?’ Patron Saint aims to answer that question.”

This subject matter for this comedy hour couldn’t be more relevant and contemporary. I haven’t come across Ms Bachman before but with any luck this should be hard-hitting top quality comedy.

22:15 – Thank You So Much for Coming, Underbelly, Cowgate.

“You are cordially invited… Cynthia, the ultimate party host, is in the midst of throwing her most fabulous party ever! A hilarious, immersive one-woman character clown show that explores loneliness, femininity, and the pressure to be seen. Playful, absurd and unhinged, Cynthia wrestles with desire and disgust at the prospect of being loved and known in a world filled with ubiquitous, yet too often empty, encounters. A delightful descent into pure madness! Awards: Best Immersive (TVO Awards), Best of Broadwater (Hollywood Fringe). ‘A beautifully surreal show with an extraordinary performance’ (Noho Arts).”

I’m up for helping Cynthia enjoy her fabulous late night party, although I have a feeling she might unravel before our eyes. I’m hoping it’s not too surreal because that might get a little tiresome. Fingers crossed it’s pitched perfectly!

Check back later to see how we enjoyed all these shows!

The Edinburgh Fringe All Month Long – 21st August 2024

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What’s in store for us in Edinburgh today?

Here’s the schedule for August 21st.

10:25 – The Duchess of Buckingham Regrets to Inform You That Her Husband is Dead, Paradise in Augustines. From the Edinburgh Fringe website:

“August 1815. The Duke of Buckingham is dead – but the feelings on this are decidedly mixed. At the Buckingham estate, his widow Selina discovers she must remarry within seven days or lose everything. So, when the perfect candidate appears, she thinks the problem is solved. Only something much darker is happening. And as an unlikely affection emerges, nastier truths come to light. With her bankrupt family depending on her and a power-hungry social climber gunning for her title, Selina’s running out of time.”

I can’t quite work out if this is historical fact or fiction, but a grandiose title like that calls out for attention, and I felt obliged to give it!

13:00 – September 11, 1973: The Day Salvador Allende Died, C Arts C venues C Aquila.

“September 11, 1973. A US-backed coup led by General Augusto Pinochet will oust Chile’s democratically-elected president. Allende died by suicide in the palace that day. The play focuses on the final hours of Salvador Allende’s life. Pinochet is hell-bent on ousting Allende and eliminating his supporters. The chips are down and there is no time to spare. As Allende anxiously considers his options, he’s challenged by a mysterious man to play the final chess game of his life. A compelling, relentless and daring play, freely based on facts.”

As an activist young man (which I never really was) I supported the Chile Solidarity Campaign and I still find anything to do with Allende, Pinochet and the protests of the time fascinating. I’m not quite sure what to make of the phrase “freely based on facts”, but no doubt all will become clear!

14:50 – All the Fraudulent Horse Girls, Pleasance Dome.

“This feral equine fantasia follows 11-year-old Audrey who is telepathically linked to all the other horse-girls in the world. After an attempt to liberate a police horse goes haywire, we are thrust from suburban Sydney to harsh desert Mexico for an unrelenting equestrian odyssey. Michael Louis Kennedy’s colt-hit, music-filled saga of loser-on-loser violence arrives in Edinburgh after taking the East London queer performance scene by storm! ***** (LondonTheatre1.com). ‘One of the most entertaining, least conventional productions you will see’ (TheReviewsHub.com). ‘An absurd and affectionate pastiche about queerness and girlhood’ (WestEndBestFriend.co.uk). Offie nominated!”

Equus with a 21st century twist? It sounds like it barely has a toenail in the real world, but it should be entertaining nonetheless!

16:45 – Stuart Laws Has to Be Joking?  Monkey Barrel Comedy (The Hive).

“Last year Stuart started telling the truth on stage and was diagnosed autistic: he got the best reviews he’s ever got and his show was a must-see. He’s back baby! And has to lean into it further. It’s funny, it’s real, it’s immaculately structured and it’s a chance to see a comedian at the top of his game. As heard on Off Menu and seen on BBC, Prime and 800 Pound Gorilla. **** ½ (Chortle.co.uk). **** (List). ‘You’ll struggle to find a comedian with a better jokes-per-minute rate’ **** (Fest).”

Stuart Laws is new to me, but comes highly recommended, so this is a hopefully lucky punt!

19:00 – Best in Class, Laughing Horse @ The Three Sisters.

“Winner: Edinburgh Comedy Award Panel Prize 2022. Best in Class is a crowdfunded, profit-sharing show that champions the rich talent of working-class comedians. Sponsored by waste grounds, knock-off trainers, spam, weed, the unions, crap schools, bunking off, failed MOTs, failed GCSEs, bus stops, pay-day loans, fierce mums, tired dads and empowerment. Featuring a mixed bill of the very best new comic voices, who just so happen to be from working-class backgrounds. ‘A great showcase of genuine talent **** (TheWeeReview.com). ‘Wonderfully funny’ **** (BroadwayWorld.com).”

I admit it, I find the ethos behind Best in Class admirable and desirable; I’ve no idea who will be performing, but I’m hoping they’re good!

20:40 – Josh Jones: Put a Sock in It, Monkey Barrel Comedy (The Tron).

“After two sell-out Fringe runs, this marvelous Manc is back with his best show yet. Since receiving a Best Newcomer nomination at the Edinburgh Comedy Awards, Josh has embarked on two sell-out UK tours and has starred on TV shows such as The Jonathan Ross Show, 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown, As Yet Untitled and much more. ‘Supremely gifted comic who can turn the slightest of events into a crowd-pleasing routine’ **** (BeyondTheJoke.co.uk). ‘Rough edges and killer wind-ups prove this Mancunian comic is his prime’ **** (List).”

This will be the first time we have seen Josh Jones live and I’m expecting great things!

Check back later to see how we enjoyed all these shows!

Edinburgh Fringe 2024 Reviews – When Vincent Met John, Crime and Punishment, Michael Porter: Love and Brain Damage, Galahad Takes a Bath, 1 Moment in Time, and I Did Something I Shouldn’t Have

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When Vincent Met John, TheSpace at Niddry Street.

4-stars

An imaginary meeting between Vincent van Gogh and John Lennon, when both are at a crisis point in their lives and careers, leads to a fascinating debate about the nature, value and definition of art. Lennon, of course, has the advantage of knowing who van Gogh is (or was) but van Gogh, obviously ignorant of Lennon, cannot comprehend how someone like him could have what might be considered to be artistic ability. Today, we would consider both to be among the finest exponents of their art in their own time; but is one better than the other, or do different eras simply favour different styles? Can one person influence another and help them to see a useful way forward, or are they condemned to continue, blinkered, along their own, private path? Murray Andrews and Nick Wilkes deliver intense, convincing performances – they are exactly how we remember Lennon and imagine how van Gogh would sound and behave; and Mr Wilkes’ eloquent text is crammed with thoughtful and thought-provoking ideas and observations that make you continue to think about it long after it’s over.

Crime and Punishment, TheSpace on The Mile.
4-stars

Talking Shadows bring their adaptation of Dostoevsky’s Crime and Punishment as a smartly condensed 45-minute play, featuring a talented ensemble of young actors. The tormented Raskolnikov stalks the stage while the rest of the cast ominously sit side by side at the back of the stage, watching, waiting, and reciting in unison (which they perform with chilling accuracy), providing voices in Raskolnikov’s head and adding to his nightmare. The relatively large cast adapt to the small acting space, without compromising on the fluidity and foreboding of their movement. A gripping retelling of this dark story with some excellent performances!

Michael Porter: Love and Brain Damage, Just the Tonic Nucleus.

4-stars

Michael Porter’s new show, Love and Brain Damage, gets its unusual name from an unusual event in Michael’s own childhood. As a boy, a freak car accident left him with a frontal lobe brain injury which actually caused him to die three times before miraculously being nursed back to life over six weeks. Unsurprisingly, this has had a profound effect on him; on his voice, on his emotions, on his ability to communicate, and on his confidence. His comic delivery has an unrestrained, powerful quality, full of attack, and combined with his (self-confessed) aggressive Northern Ireland accent, let’s just say that nobody sleeps when Michael Porter is talking! Much of this show is about how that incident has affected him, but there’s also loads of great material about relocating to Scotland, his tough upbringing, and the joys of living in a town called… err… Muff. Full of energy and sincerity, the innate kindness and vulnerability that lurks under his gruff exterior shines through and makes for a rewarding, educational and, indeed, very funny hour.

Galahad Takes a Bath, Zoo Southside.

From Thomas Malory, through Alfred, Lord Tennyson to Lerner and Loewe and Monty Python, the Court of King Arthur has inspired literature, music and humour. The latest take on Camelot is Juggler’s Mistake’s Galahad Takes a Bath, starring Forest Malley as the eponymous knight, fresh in from a day’s knighting, and in desperate need of a bath – after all, it’s vital to maintain the clean purity that’s his brand – but first, he’ll take some questions, press conference style. Yes, he has a slightly unorthodox relationship with Lancelot, and no, he can’t give any further updates on the progress to find the Grail, other than what’s already been officially released. But when you dig down into Galahad the man, can anyone truly be that pure and untainted? Written with punchy spark by Jojo Jones, the play’s honesty and sincerity paint a picture of a wonderfully modern and recognisable Galahad, both brilliantly funny and surprisingly tragic. A hilarious, unpredictable, epoch-bending show, with a superb performance by Forest Malley, who invests Galahad with an unexpected, but completely believable personality. One of the best performances in this year’s Fringe.

1 Moment in Time, TheSpace at Surgeons’ Hall.

Sean Alexander, the Confusionist, asks us to consider one moment in time, and it’s a theme he weaves into the whole hour, including some truly extraordinary tricks and feats. Without giving any games away, there’s a trick that involves us all doing an elaborate sum on the calculators on our phones that has an amazing end result; there are other amazing tricks that involve a wedding ring and a message in a balloon, and my favourite, a deceptively simple trick which involves the synchronicity of two packs of cards shuffled separately. Mr Alexander presents the show with warmth, heart, and a sensitivity for the emotions that the show releases, and you’ll come away from it with a sense of awe and bafflement. Astounding!

I Did Something I Shouldn’t Have, TheSpace on The Mile.

3-stars

Family secrets, eh? Every family has them; most don’t let them get quite this out of hand. Estranged from their father, and with their mother dead, three brothers grow up together as best they can under the care of the oldest, Harrison. Middle brother Will suffers badly from the effects of being abused by his father; and youngest brother Sean wants to know more about this father that no one ever talks about. After all, he’s sixteen now, and needs to understand his own identity. Vince, the father, is a complete monster of a man, and they’re all better off without him. But when Sean’s curiosity gets the better of him, he starts a chain of events that they would all come to regret. Paul-James Green’s ambitious play tells a fascinating and engrossing story that keeps the audience locked in and engaged throughout, although, to be fair, there are a couple of aspects to the plot that lack credibility. There’s a particularly strong performance by Gary Simpson as Vince – a genuinely threatening and evil presence on stage, and there is also some extremely impressive stage combat – especially involving Mr Simpson and Richard Michell as Will. If you’re looking for a happy ending – look no further! It’s not exactly a pleasant play, but it does expose a few family home truths.

Edinburgh Fringe 2024 Reviews – I Am Your Tribute, Beryl Cook: A Private View, Please DON’T see our show, Milo Edwards: How Revolting! Sorry to Offend, and Sitting Pretty with Kitty Cassis

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I Am Your Tribute, PBH’s Free Fringe at the Voodoo Rooms.

You can divide the world into two types of people; those who think tribute acts are cheap and steal the glory of the stars they mimic, or those who believe they honour their stars and pay tribute to their excellence. If you’re one of the latter, you’re going to love Sarah-Louise Young’s I Am Your Tribute. What are the reasons why a performer might go down this particular path of entertainment, and which plethora of stars do performers like Sarah-Louise choose to bring to life? All is answered in this enormously positive and joyful show, with plenty of good-hearted audience participation and, unlike Mamma Mia and The Bodyguard, you’re welcome to sing along too (at appropriate moments. When invited to do so. Don’t disrespect the turn!) There’s a thrilling moment where Julie Andrews has to Let it Go, plus there are wonderful tributes to Freddy Mercury, Kate Bush and many more. All put together by the hugely talented powerhouse that is Sarah-Louise Young. The kind of feelgood show that has you beaming from ear to ear, and a truly showbizzy start to the day!

Beryl Cook: A Private View, Pleasance Courtyard.

3-stars

There was a time when Beryl Cook’s illustrations were everywhere. On greetings cards, posters, tea towels, mugs, you name it. Her style has always been instantly recognisable; big, jolly men and women, warts and all, getting caught off-guard having fun, frequently with a touch of naughtiness or even salaciousness. But what do we know of the woman herself? She lived a very private life and kept herself and her family out of the news headlines. Beryl Cook: A Private View is an excellent way of getting to know the woman behind those bold canvasses. Kara Wilson writes, narrates and paints her way through an appreciation of Beryl, a show created in association with Beryl’s son John, and it’s an enjoyable and highly inventive hour of both understanding the creative process behind those famous pictures and good old-fashioned nostalgia. Out of necessity, Ms Wilson has to have her back to the audience on and off throughout the performance to paint her picture; this does somewhat interrupt the flow of the show, but I can’t see how this could be avoided. Nevertheless, it is fascinating to see a picture painted over the course of an hour, and you will come out of this show wiser about Ms Cook and her work.

Please DON’T see our show, Just the Tonic at the Mash House.

3-stars

Welcome to the Zumba hour; well, it would be, but it’s easier to book a Fringe venue than negotiate with the local parish council. So, a quick change of programming is required, and after dismissing a suggestion of an improv show, the group decides to go back to their offering of five years ago, a loose parody of Love Actually, Duncan’s Big Affair. It destroyed friendships last time around, and it looks like it might do the same again now. I think that’s the gist of the show, but I’m not 100% certain if I’m honest! Not A Gym Productions’ Please DON’T see our show is full of comic ideas and a whole heap of physical comedy, some of which lands terrifically, and some of which never reaches the ground. Perhaps I’m a little old to get all the references; however, the performers are all very likeable, full of energy and commitment, and show tremendous potential; indeed, the actors playing Emma and Molly (Bethan and Robyn?) give very strong comic performances. Most important of all, the audience loved it!

Milo Edwards: How Revolting! Sorry to Offend, Monkey Barrel Comedy 2.

4-stars

Milo Edwards’ new show takes on the class system in the UK and specifically concentrates on his grandmother Peg, and her influence in his upbringing; her proficiency on the Bowls green and her appreciation of the art of Spite – which is clearly what keeps her going into her very old age! Milo Edwards is a fantastic joke teller, and the hour is crammed with superb material, including reflections on the Falklands War, how to spot a posh person, and the perils of temporary tattoos on the backside. Fresh, funny and full of drive, Mr Edwards is a terrific comic presence and we didn’t stop laughing all the way through!

Sitting Pretty with Kitty Cassis, PBH’s Free Fringe at the Street.

3-stars

Come, if you dare, into Kitty Cassis’ salon – the most exclusive hairdressing salon in the North West, where she also doubles up as a hair transplant surgeon, earlobe reader and she’s a devil with the fillers. Everyone’s a valued client as Kitty shares her career highlights and professional rivalries – whatever you do, don’t go to Brenda’s Brows or she’ll kill you. A fun, inclusive and hilariously good-natured show, Kitty Cassis is the comedy creation of Aimee Cooper, and she presents an hour of chatty gossip, musical interludes and bleaching. Throw yourself into it and you’ll get the most out of it – I came out with a hair transplant! What the Free Fringe is all about!

 

The Edinburgh Fringe All Month Long – 19th August 2024

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What’s in store for us in Edinburgh today?

Here’s the schedule for August 19th.

9:50 – When Vincent Met John, theSpace @ Niddry St. From the Edinburgh Fringe website:

“Vincent died in 1890, John died in 1980, both of gunshot wounds to the chest. But imagine what might have happened had the two greatest artists of their time met? Five years before their deaths, both men went through profound change. Van Gogh renounced religious ambition, began to paint, and, despite arguments with antagonist Paul Gaugin, created his life’s masterworks. Lennon renounced sex, drugs and rock’n’roll, began five years seclusion and, despite arguments with antagonist Paul McCartney, created a son and his last album. This play takes place at their exact moment of crisis and decision.”

An early start for a play that confronts us with a fascinating comparison – Van Gogh v. Lennon. I’ve no idea where it’s going to take us, but I’m fascinated to find out.

11:35 – Crime and Punishment, theSpace on the Mile.

“In the sweltering heat of a Saint Petersburg summer, impoverished student Raskolnikov wrestles with the thoughts of the good he could do were he able to lay hands on the wealth of an unscrupulous old woman. Dostoyevsky’s seminal masterpiece of psychological torment sees Raskolnikov unravel as his guilt and conscience collide with the reality of his murderous dreams. Praise for writer/director Rebecca Vines’ previous works: ‘Chilling… brilliant… powerful’ ***** (BroadwayBaby.com). ‘A cut above’ **** (TheWeeReview.co.uk). ‘Power and strength’ **** (BritishTheatreGuide.info).”

Somehow I managed to read Crime and Punishment when I was 17 and I have absolutely no idea how I managed it because I certainly couldn’t now. But I love the idea of squeezing Raskolnikov’s story into forty minutes, and if this is done well it could be brilliant.

13:50 – Michael Porter – Love and Brain Damage, Just the Tonic Nucleus.

“Michael sheds light on the everyday challenges of his condition, from the struggles of memory loss and impulse control to the comical mishaps that ensue when navigating social interactions. Whether it’s forgetting where he parked his car (he doesn’t drive) or unintentionally blurting out inappropriate remarks, Michael’s adventures are sure to leave audiences in stitches. From finding himself on the wrong path surrounded by the wrong people, to facing the harsh realities of death and prison, Michael’s journey is one of resilience, growth, strength and, ultimately, love.”

For a comedy show, this sounds like it could be quite a challenging experience. I’m looking forward to hearing Michael talk about his life and adventures.

16:00 – Galahad Takes a Bath, Zoo Southside.

“’I got very little, little to no media training, so… Sorry!’ Sir Galahad the Pure, Knight of the Round Table, son of Lancelot the Brave, is taking a bath. Even the chosen one needs a break sometimes, okay? But long soaks in the bath can lead to painful questions, and the cleaner Galahad gets, the dirtier he becomes. In this darkly comedic show about sex, jobs, and the Holy Grail, by the time Galahad gets out, he might not want to be so Pure anymore.”

This sounds like a delightfully ridiculous set-up. It was the pure nonsense of it that appealed. I’m expecting Galahad to use the hour as a free therapy session. Let’s see how it turns out!

18:00 – 1 Moment in Time, theSpace @ Surgeons’ Hall.

“In his brand new, thought-provoking show, magician and mind illusionist Sean Alexander reflects on the defining moments in time that shape each and every one of us. With jaw dropping magic throughout, each instance intertwined with powerful metaphors and storytelling, this show is unlike anything else. Discover your moments in time all over again… ‘You are incredible, I will have you attend the palace’ (HRH Princess Michael of Kent). ‘Incredibly talented’ (Stephen Mulhern). ‘I love magic that tells a story and I really like you’ (Simon Cowell).”

I’ve seen a little of Sean Alexander’s work online and it looks very impressive, so I’m hoping for a breathtaking fifty minutes of amazement.

20:15 – I Did Something I Shouldn’t Have…, theSpace on the Mile.

“16 year-old Sean Parker has never known his Dad and wants to change that. His brothers are unenthusiastic about his plans… Undeterred and egged on by his best friend, Sean successfully makes contact with and meets with his Dad… but at what cost? This reunion carries risks and potential danger that may affect all their lives resulting in them never being the same again…”

Those moments in one’s life when one makes a big decision – there’s no going back after it. That’s what I’m expecting here, a strong and powerful examination of the reunion to end all reunions.

Check back later to see how we enjoyed all these shows!

Edinburgh Fringe 2024 Reviews – Nina Rose Carlin: Seeking Representation, The Grim, With All My Fondest Love, and The Dreamer – Live

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Nina Rose Carlin: Seeking Representation, TheSpace at Surgeons’ Hall.

3-stars

Nina Rose Carlin seeks the path to Hollywood stardom by following a list of six simple rules guaranteed to see you make it big in Tinseltown; unfortunately, none of them seem to work. From not knowing which Los Angeles airport to land in, to selling her soul to an AI version of herself, surely there must be a way for Nina to become a star and avoid the existential dread that (apparently) all actors face! Nina Rose Carlin commands the stage with a blend of Hollywood pizzazz and out-of-place smalltown girl failure, looking every inch a star and with an amazing voice to boot. In fact, the song interludes are the best part of the show; reflective, tuneful, and heartfelt. Some of the humour doesn’t quite land, mainly because of the use of American references that most British audiences simply wouldn’t recognise. I’d love to see her do something more – I reckon she could nail Sondheim.

The Grim, Underbelly Bristo Square.

4-stars

The body of the late Jackie “Guillotine” Gallagher is next on the slab at the undertakers to be measured for his coffin; but this simple task involves a little more of a challenge than those undertakers, Rob and Shaun, were expecting. The “Grim” of the title is an Irish folklore apparition that takes the form of a huge black dog with red glowing eyes; see one, and you’ll be dead before long. Part ghost story, part comedy thriller, this terrific new play by Edmund Morris involves voices, revenge and a bit of blood too. Very well acted on a tiny, odd-shaped stage, it’s full of surprises – just remember to share your sweeties next time.

With All My Fondest Love, Greenside @ George Street.

4-stars

In the attic are boxes and boxes of old love letters, diaries, train tickets, photographs, records, and even cricket trophies; all the detritus of lives gone by. Noah Wild traces the early days of his grandparents’ first meetings, their letters to each other, and their hopes and dreams for a happy future together. Their letters are signed With All My Fondest Love. But relationships don’t always go the way we hope, and every good thing has to end at some point. But not before the birth of Neil, Noah’s father; or else Noah wouldn’t have come into this world! Noah, too, is still suffering from a relationship breakdown, being ghosted by his ex, and drawing parallels between his failed relationship and the gradually disintegrating relationship of his grandparents. None of this will be possible one hundred years on, where love letters are mere texts and train tickets are pdf’s. Elegantly and emotionally written, and full of recognisable Oxford references if you know that city well, Mr Wild delivers a powerful and heartfelt performance filled with all those tiny elements that go to make up the early days of a relationship. It tugs at all your emotions, and reminds us of someone we knew and loved.

The Dreamer – Live, Underbelly’s Circus Hub on the Meadows.

4-stars

No gimmicks, no sideshows; James Phelan starts his Dreamer show off straight away with a couple of extraordinary tricks, that involve predicting cards selected from a pack by different people from the audience, and piecing together various numbers chosen by random audience members to make a potentially very profitable sequence (I’ll say no more). As the show progresses, he involves the whole crowd in an experiment to see how well their imagination works (I’ll tell you now, mine was fairly rotten) and from that, he chooses a few audience members on whom he can practise a very special kind of mind control (again, I’ll say no more). James Phelan’s tricks defy all sense of logic and reason and leave you totally spellbound. I haven’t a clue as to how he did any of it – I just watched, agog, and in awe.

The Edinburgh Fringe All Month Long – 18th August 2024

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What’s in store for us in Edinburgh today?

Here’s the schedule for August 18th.

12:05 – I Am Your Tribute, PBH’s Free Fringe @ Voodoo Rooms. From the Edinburgh Fringe website:

“An interactive choose-your-own-adventure cabaret! Love them or hate them, tribute acts are here to stay. But they are not all the same… Join your sparkling host, Sarah-Louise Young, as she invites you to help her create the ultimate tribute to an act of your choosing! Along the way she’ll teach you the tricks of the trade, share her greatest hits and uncover the occasionally darker side of living in someone’s else’s shadow. Expect music, wigs and wonderment from the performer and co-creator of An Evening Without Kate Bush and Julie Madly Deeply.”

It’s always a delight to see Sarah-Louise Young, she’s been the mainstay at the touring Burlesque Show many times, and her Evening Without Kate Bush is a thing of definite beauty. Personally, I really love a Tribute Act, they can sometimes be better than the real thing!

14:05 – Beryl Cook: A Private View, Pleasance Courtyard.

“Beryl Cook’s joyful and comic paintings are known and loved throughout the world but little is known of the very private person behind them. In her fifth play on a painter, Kara Wilson has worked with the artist’s family to shed light on this intriguing figure. This play offers a rare glimpse into Beryl’s private thoughts as the audience witnesses her complete one of her bold and playful paintings.”

Who doesn’t love Beryl Cook’s paintings, with their cheeky insights into real lives full of character. But indeed, I know nothing of the painter herself, so this will be a fascinating glimpse into someone who’s brightened up all our lives at some point.

15:45 – please DON’T see our show, Just the Tonic at The Mash House.

“After a group of Zumba-lovers discover that it’s easier to book a Fringe venue than it is to hire out a rehearsal space in their local parish rooms, drastic measures must be taken. But when paying audience members turn up and the group are forced to provide them with a performance quick, all they have to offer is the disgraced, friendship-destroying production they performed at the Fringe five years prior. As the friends reprise their show, can their friendship survive the inevitable fallout triggered by the final performance of Duncan’s Big Affair?”

I love the premise of this play, and if it’s smartly written and entertainingly performed, this must be a winner.

17:45 – Milo Edwards: How Revolting! Sorry to Offend, Monkey Barrel Comedy.

“Milo is sick of it all. Disgusted with the state of things. No, thank you. Everything is getting worse. In 2023 he got a temporary tattoo on his arse. Award-winning comedian Milo Edwards returns to the fringe with a show about class, Britain, common decency and cum… and other revolting things that are best not talked about. ‘Edwards has quietly become one of the UK’s smartest, most vital stand-ups’ (Chortle.co.uk). ‘Near perfect’ ***** (TheWeeReview.com). ‘Milo Edwards’ comedy is a little like marmalade’ **** (BroadwayBaby.com). Best Show nominee Leicester Comedy Festival (2023 and 2024).”

We’ve not seen Milo Edwards before, so if he’s like marmalade, it could get a bit sticky but at least it’s not Marmite. Hoping for a good laugh!

19:45 – Sitting Pretty With Kitty, PBH’s Free Fringe @ Bannermans.

“Sitting Pretty is a camp, fun-filled, happy-hearted show with northern powerhouse, beautician, astrologist, therapist and cabaret performer, Kitty Cassis. There are tales from the salon, hilarious parody songs and the opportunity to experience a full emotional MOT. Straddling cabaret and comedy, Kitty finds nostalgic solutions to modern-day problems with a clown-inspired twist. Kitty is the ultimate party guest. ‘A vision in leopard print… glimpses of early Caroline Aherne…’ (Chortle.co.uk).”

I’ve seen a little of Kitty’s work online and she comes across as a complete hoot. I reckon this will be a very funny way to end the day.

Check back later to see how we enjoyed all these shows!

Edinburgh Fringe 2024 Reviews – Lost Girl, A Montage of Monet, Naughty or Neurodiverse – Magic from Another Planet, Sam See: And I Can’t Feel at Home in this World Anymore, Shower Chair and Notice Box

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Lost Girl, Underbelly George Square.

The story of Birdy, a young Manchester woman of Arab-Jewish heritage, searching for her own identity as she grows up. When she discovers a photograph of her grandfather when he was a child, with a girl by his side, she finds out he had a twin sister who was kidnapped. Grandfather is unhappy at having this memory brought into the open. Whilst working as an archivist, she discovers the same photograph had been donated to the archive ten years earlier. But by whom? And is there more to discover about her family past? Written and performed by Amy Lever, the play examines a fascinating family dilemma, as Birdy blunders from one misjudgement to another in an attempt to make sense of her life and to come to terms with the past. For me, the piece was overperformed and could have benefited from more light and shade in the vocal characterisations and narrative approach. As a writer, however, Ms Lever shows great promise.

A Montage of Monet, Greenside at George Street.

4-stars

We all know about Monet’s waterlilies, and that he was the poster boy of the impressionist movement, but did you know that, in his youth, he was a great cartoonist, and when he was stationed in Algiers on National Service, he drew pictures of which he was immensely proud, but none of them has survived, sadly. And what do we know about his private life? Stephen Smith lifts the lid on Monet the Man in A Montage of Monet, Joan Greening’s wonderfully written dramatisation of his life and loves. As an old man, Monet is cantankerous, dependent on his daughter-in-law Blanche to look after him – which he resents. But looking back over his life, he recalls the professional jealousies, the painters he liked – he would only like someone if he knew he was a better painter than them – the places that inspired him, the women, the models; and also his constantly evolving styles of painting. Stephen Smith gives a superb performance as Monet, self-opinionated, grumpy, but hugely charismatic. A very satisfying show on many levels; and it’s educational as well as telling a great story!

Naughty or Neurodiverse – Magic from Another Planet (Angus Baskerville), TheSpace on The Mile.

4-stars

Angus Baskerville presents an hour of very impressive magic that he performs alongside recounting his own personal experiences of autism and ADHD, how they affected him at school, and how his aptitude for magic has changed his life. He involves the entire audience in some of his tricks, many of which reveal his excellent skills as a mentalist. I wouldn’t dream of spoiling the show for future audiences by giving you a run-down on what tricks he did, but there are a few tricks here that simply blow your mind. Presented with lively enthusiasm and a cheery friendliness, this is a perfect afternoon fix of magic for all the family.

Sam See: And I Can’t Feel at Home in This World Anymore, Laughing Horse at the Counting House.

4-stars

Sam See’s new show, And I Can’t Feel at Home in This World Anymore, is an account of how he decided to uproot from Singapore where he had lived for 30 years and start a new life in the UK. He explores the reasons why he felt he needed to leave, why he chose the UK over anywhere else, and what his hopes are for his new life in Britain. His is a fascinating story, both hilarious and sad; and his hugely likeable stage presence has us all rooting for him from the very beginning. A sparky, effervescent and dapper chap, Sam sets a tone of affable inclusivity, very much at odds with the homophobic experiences he had as a stand-up comic in Singapore. Only time will tell if he’s made the right move, but this most entertaining hour of comedy is a delightful mix of funny stories and personal confession.

Shower Chair, Greenside at George Street.

4-stars

When Ben Fallaci breaks his ankle and gets stuck in a geriatric shower chair, it’s about as low an ebb as his life can get; but from there, the only way is up. Shunned by male friends at school, Ben comforts himself by surrounding himself with girl pals, which influences all aspects of his social life. This is a masterfully told hour of one man’s development from childhood, a journey of self-discovery, best friends, toxic mates, and the abandonment of his greatest enemy. Very believable, frank, open and brave; but also very funny, positive and life-affirming.

Notice Box, Greenside at George Street.

4-stars

Sometimes when I see a show featuring someone described as a TikTok influencer or a viral sensation my heart sinks as I will almost certainly not know who the person is (while the rest of the audience are ecstatic fans), and the material will be aimed at someone at least forty years younger than me. But there are exceptions to every rule; and Simon Hennessy’s Notice Box is ideal for everyone who has a smartphone, with clever, quirky and hilarious takes on every aspect of phone dependency. From the carefree early days of social media, through the inability to use dating apps with dignity, to the embarrassment of having to share one’s Spotify Unwrapped list, this show is crammed with fantastic sketches and songs – with amusing visual accompaniments! Mr Hennessy has a very funny, hugely self-deprecating stage persona, and, although we were indeed forty years older than everyone else and probably the only people not to have heard of him, we absolutely loved his show. Way better than it has any right to be!

The Edinburgh Fringe All Month Long – 17th August 2024

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Only 4 shows today!

Here’s the schedule for August 17th.

11:35 – Nina Rose Carlin: Seeking Representation, theSpace @ Surgeons’ Hall. From the Edinburgh Fringe website:

“She’s an LA actress. Of course she knows her rising moon sign. Of course she can arrange dry-cleaning for a studio executive’s offspring in her sleep. Of course she takes her coffee with a splash of oat milk, and a heaping spoonful of existential dread. With live music, unhinged characters, and a bit of pixie dust (read: Ozempic) Seeking Representation is a one-woman show meets cabaret with a subversive sucker punch. From five-star Hollywood Fringe Festival award-winner and certified LA actress herself, Nina Rose Carlin!”

I confess I know nothing about Nina Rose Carlin but there was something about this description that piqued my curiosity!

13:15 – The Grim, Underbelly, Bristo Square.

“London, 1964. Shaun and Robert are trying to get through another shift as undertakers in the East End, but on the day they’re due to fit deceased murderer, Jackie Gallagher, for his coffin and with strange happenings afoot, all is not as it seems… Following the success of his ‘holler-out-loud funny’ (TheSmuReviews.co.uk) Fringe debut You’re Dead, Mate, award-winning playwright Edmund Morris is back with his latest, darkest comedy: The Grim.”

You’re Dead, Mate was one of the most intriguing and entertaining plays of last year’s Fringe, so I was keen to see what Edmund Morris has come up with for this year! This play sounds like it could have an element of Joe Orton to it – looking forward to finding out.

15:05 – With All My Fondest Love, Greenside @ George Street.

“How well can you know your own family? A grandson discovers the hidden secrets behind his grandparents’ ordinary yet curious marriage. Using real-life letters and diaries, Noah Wild struggles to fill in the blanks in his own family history, from burnt letters to unspoken loss. Struggling with his own heartbreak, he follows love through entwined past generations to reflect on how to live in the present. A true story discovered and retold, this moving new monologue explores how love and grief change across a lifetime. ‘Beautiful… a wonderful piece of theatre’ (WildRoseAndPearls.com).”

I have often wondered how, in this digital age, future generations will be able to look back and discover the secrets of the past; you can’t help but think finding old emails and texts won’t have the same allure. Noah Wild’s personal story sounds fascinating and if this is done well it could be a superb piece of theatre.

17:15 – The Dreamer – Live, Underbelly’s Circus Hub on the Meadows.

“’Magic is in his bones. Disbelief, flabbergasted, stunned’ ***** (Herald). It’s time to believe in magic… Award-winning magician James Phelan, infamous for jamming the BBC switchboard after correctly predicting the lottery, returns with this ground-breaking new magic show. Touching on his parents’ 12 year struggle with IVF, The Dreamer is a celebration of the impossible becoming possible. With magic unparalleled elsewhere at Fringe, this show will leave you aching with laughter and dizzy in disbelief. ‘One to watch in the world of magic’ **** (The List)”

With magic running through his veins – Paul Daniels was his uncle – I’m sure this will be a stunner of a show. Here’s hoping!

Check back later to see how we enjoyed all these shows!

Edinburgh Fringe 2024 Reviews – Joe Wells: Daddy Autism, Lessons on Revolution, Trawled – When Adventure Becomes Survival, One Man Poe: The Black Cat and The Raven, Pete Heat: Bogus, and Ryan Cullen: Cullen in the Name Of!

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Joe Wells – Daddy Autism, PBH’s Free Fringe at the Banshee Labyrinth.

4-stars

Always a must-see on a visit to the Edinburgh Fringe, Joe Wells is back with Daddy Autism, a show inspired by both the fact that he and his wife are expecting their first baby, and that this has caused Joe to think more about his relationship with his own father, who seems to be on a one-way ticket to death. But this is in no way a morbid show! There’s some very recognisable comedy about what a nightmare a trip to the tip can be, and Joe’s dad has a very positive conclusion about the right way to deal with a situation when you don’t know the rules. A finely structured set with some first-rate callbacks; there are even a few glimpses of Joe’s old penchant for political comedy.

Lessons on Revolution, Summerhall.

4-stars

Revolutions don’t come along quite as often as buses, but arguably they are cyclical; primarily because the reasons for revolution never really go away. Sam Rees and Gabriele Uboldi meet as students who share a flat in London. They also have come up with Lessons in Revolution, an examination of the student protests in 1968, which started at the London School of Economics, and that unrest spread all around the world. There’s also a parallel account of Sam and Gab’s own situation, living in an HMO whose licence has been withdrawn because it’s not fit for habitation and is a fire hazard. Cleverly structured as a lecture rather than a play, this is an engagingly presented, entertainingly interactive production that gives us the facts behind those LSE protests and allows us to consider them and draw our own conclusions.

Trawled – When Adventure Becomes Survival, TheSpace at Venue 45.

3-stars

On a whim, Eoin Ryan signed up to work on a trawler in the Coral Sea, off Australia; having spent a lot of money enjoying the Aussie craic on a visit down under, he needed cash to fulfil his dream of flying to Peru and visiting Machu Picchu. Without any experience, but with the ability to bluff his way through an interview procedure, he ends up catching prawns on the high seas with Stu, Tom and Peter – who turn into the fishermen colleagues from hell. Tough work, bullying, the threat of violence and physical injury take him to the extremes of endurance; but he survives. Presenting his story as a one-man play, Mr Ryan expresses the sheer pain and exhaustion of his work and daily existence, and the frustrations of being imprisoned against his will. A gripping story told from personal experience; my only criticism would be that perhaps those feelings of peril, fear and agony could have been conveyed even more powerfully and viscerally.

One Man Poe: The Black Cat and The Raven, Greenside at Riddles Court.

4-stars

Stephen Smith brings his One Man Poe to the Fringe with two one-hour shows, each telling two of Poe’s most famous and eerie works. At the show we saw, he gave us his dramatization of The Black Cat and The Raven, both rivetingly performed in the darkness of Riddle’s Court Clover Studio. The Black Cat takes us into the world of an alcoholic who cannot control his anger and resentment when under the influence of drink; the family black cat bears the brunt of his villainy, but when his fury gets completely out of hand – can a cat take revenge? The Raven is one of Poe’s most famous poems, where a lover is confronted by a terrible truth: Quoth the raven, nevermore. Mr Smith commands our attention throughout and brings both life and terror to these portentous tales. Totally engrossing and unmissable, and a brilliant way of keeping Poe’s legacy alive for a new generation.

Pete Heat: Bogus, Pleasance Dome.

We all know that magic isn’t really magic… but Pete Heat makes it as near perfectly magical as possible in his new show, Bogus. A series of extraordinary tricks, using playing cards, smartphones, word games, star signs, and a cuddly toy; surely there isn’t such a thing as genuine mind reading, but if there is, then Mr H is the master of it. All presented with terrific humour by the tallest man in magic, his feats simply defy logic and understanding. Impossible to describe – you just have to see it!

Ryan Cullen: Cullen in the Name Of!, Underbelly Bristo Square.

4-stars

Ryan Cullen wastes no time trying to butter us up with some moderately nuanced jokes to start the gig; he goes straight for the jugular with topics that lesser comedians simply wouldn’t dare to consider. Delivered with amazing attack and confidence, I don’t think there’s a subject that Mr C wouldn’t touch – and, because his material is extremely funny, he gets away with it. Not for the easily offended; in fact, ideal for anyone who likes to get offended! This was our first exposure to Mr Cullen but certainly won’t be our last. Rapid, daredevilish comedy with superb and unexpectedly friendly crowd work. I loved it!