5 Stars

*****

The 4 Poofs are what they are but beneath all the non PC patter, they provide a solid hour of witty musical entertainment. When they sing as a quartet, they can really put a song across with their rich and full harmonisation. Individually, they can command the stage with sheer presence and singing ability.

They perform around a dozen songs opening up with Dolly Parton’s ‘9 till 5’ – a good up tempo song to get the audience in the mood as they move into the auditorium minimally dressed from the waist down. I have no intention of giving a precise song list – why spoil the surprises that await, particularly the song and dance routines along with their many costume changes.

If all that you can remember about the four guys are their appearances as the house band on the Jonathan Ross TV chat show, it does not do justice to the fact they can operate successfully in a big stage setting. They do provide a balanced and contrasting selection of musical entertainment.

Their claim to national fame is their original and very funny lyrics to well-known tunes. Their rapid run through of songs from musicals such as Evita and many more is a comedy joy. You know a show has gone down well with the audience when what it really wants is a few encores when they have completed their prepared set.

Reviewed by Ben

Pleasance Courtyard – Pleasance One: 33

3 to 28 August 2011 (not 17)

18.00 – 19.00

Fringe programme page number: 77