one4review | On 14, Aug 2025

There is improv and then there is this improv.

Although this genre is not my favourite, when it is done well, and this certainly is, it can be spectacularly entertaining and hilarious, if often sublimely silly as well.

Paul Merton is of course a household name and has been a master of improv for decades as has wife Suki Webster.  They have become the gold standard. Add into the lineup the evergreen Mike McShane, the irrepressible Kirsty Newton on keys, with guest performers each day, Sally Hodgekiss on the day I attended, the vast barn of the sold-out Pleasance Grand was in for a treat.

The ’usual’ variety of improv games were on display, the hilarious, often ridiculous duties were shared, as unlikely audience suggestions where in acted, showcasing the quick-witted repartee and vast talent of all performers.

The time flew by, it seemed that had been performing for minutes when unfortunately their hour was up, always the sign of a great show in my opinion.

This show is on a short run this year and tickets will be snapped up quickly. Don’t be the one to miss out!

****1/2

Reviewed by Geoff

Pleasance Grand

15.30 to 16.30

Until August 17^th