Sapan Verma, in his own modest words, describes himself as a relatively well known comedian in India.  Well known enough it seems to be invited to audition for a commercial opposite India’s most famous Bollywood star! Although it admittedly did not quite go to plan and he didn’t actually secure the high profile gig.

There are many anecdotes on what it is like being a stand up comedian in India.  It is somewhat of a minefield and navigating through India’s current sensitive political and religious climate can be a challenge.  This you might say, is not unique to India.  Social media can be a powerful tool in building a following and establishing a profile. Sapan then tells us about how, as a young stand up, he thought it might be a great idea to make, a hopefully viral, video taking a political stand on a hot topic of the time.  A video that could potentially be his big break through.  Big mistake. Big slightly terrifying mistake.

Sapan’s style of observational story telling is engaging and entertaining with mass appeal. There are one or two references that might be lost on you if you have not spent time or lived in India but no translation needed.

A very impressive Fringe debut.

4****

Reviewed by Margot

Pleasance Courtyard (The Cellar)

18.40 (1hr)

Until 27 Aug (not 14)