5 Stars *****

Okay I’ll get the confession out of the way first. I am not a fan of poetry in any format. It generally does nothing for me, but I was encouraged to go and see this show and have to confess I loved it. Every second!!

A simple set up, two screens which from time to time illustrated our wordsmith’s tale, a short explanation on ballads and their original historical purpose and the rhyming pattern occasionally, and then just a number of lyrical, generally funny, extremely entertaining and masterfully delivered creations from this imposing lad from Colchester.

It would be interesting to the statisticians amongst us as to the number of words he used in this hour long show, but I’m willing to bet that it is more than virtually every other performer at the Fringe this year. One thing is that he does speak rather quickly so one really does have to listen closely, but the concentration required is more than worth it.

You could have heard a pin drop in the labyrinth while he was in full flow, and the applause that followed each was long and sustained.

So, don’t think poetry and ballads are not for you, give it a try, and like me you may just be surprised.

Reviewed by Geoff

Underbelly V61

4 to 28 August (not 16)

16:15 to 17:15

Fringe Brochure P111