one4review | On 06, Aug 2025

Since its debut at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 2022, Shamilton! has quickly gained cult status, attracting loyal fans who return year after year. This was evident from the long queue—made more bearable by the offer of candy!—that snaked around the venue, leading to yet another sold-out performance.

Performed by the renowned comedy ensemble Baby Wants Candy, Shamilton! The Improvised Hip-Hop Musical is an experience not to be missed.

The concept is simple yet brilliant: the audience chooses the main character, and the cast creates a fully improvised hip-hop musical—very loosely based on a well-known musical—around them. This time, the chosen character was none other than Steve Irwin – The Crocodile Hunter! Jane Goodall, hilariously cast as an insane villain and the cause of marital issues, added an unexpected twist. What followed was an hour of unpredictable turns, clever choreography, catchy songs, and genuine belly laughs.

Each performer contributed to the evolving storyline with seamless transitions and spontaneous creativity. I especially enjoyed watching the cast members appreciate when one of their colleagues landed a particularly good one-liner! Their ability to build on each other’s ideas while maintaining a coherent narrative was a testament to their talent.

As someone who’s never been a fan of improv, Shamilton! completely won me over—it was a celebration of music, comedy, and audience participation.

With Baby Wants Candy’s subsequent show also sold out, it’s clear they are well-deserved festival heavyweights, built on consistently outstanding performances. Well done!

*****

Reviewed by Louise Hall

Assembly George Square (Studio One)

19:35 (1 hour), Until 24 Aug