one4review | On 10, Aug 2023

Without any shadow of doubt this show warrants 5 stars, not just because of the big name comedians who are eager to perform at these daily fundraisers for Gareth Richards’ children, but also due to the generosity of the audiences who are packing Whistlelbinkies, a steamy pub basement just off the High Street, who are moved by what they discover about Gareth and what he meant to so many other people too.

The bills change daily and have included big names such as Frank Skinner and Dara O’Briain, with Jack Whitehall and Stewart Lee amongst many others yet to come. Dara who usually plays arenas and theatres but could barely fit onto this stage, brought the house down from the off with a variant on the timeless oneliner: “They say you only play Whistlebinkies twice in your life”, adding with a grin “I hope not!”

These shows are a celebration in the way of all good wakes, with tears about Gareth’s continual kindness, generosity of spirit, and enthusiasm for those in the comedy world and so many whose lives he touched so positively, not forgetting his brilliance as a comedian and talented musical performer which is already such a loss.

Today’s audience also welcomed John Robins who talked movingly about him and Gareth starting comedy together in Bristol, the great times they spent together on the road over the years, while sharing amusing anecdotes.

Huge appreciation goes from the comedy world to Mark Simmons and Danny Ward, longtime Fringe chums and flatsharers with Gareth, for having the foresight, energy and commitment to turn the showtime that he had booked this August, into such a wonderful celebration of the man, while also benefitting his children and producing such memorable shows as a meaningful tribute, with more yet to come.

*****

Reviewed by HJ on 10 August 2023
PBH’s Free Fringe at Whistle Binkies
16.00 (1hr)
Until 27 Aug