one4review | On 20, Aug 2025

It seems unusual for a comedian’s debut Fringe run to sell out before it has even begun, but Gianmarco Soresi has already built such a cult following for his comedy through his online presence and viral stand-up clips that extra shows were added because of the demand – and all before he had even arrived in Edinburgh. Naturally, with such anticipation, he appears onstage on the first day of his run to an enthusiastic and receptive audience; Gianmarco has such a natural and engaging stage presence from beginning to end that it’s hard to believe he’s literally just arrived from New York.

In The Drama King Hour, Soresi races through various subjects ranging from lighthearted material about his girlfriend’s night terrors and her coriander ‘aversion’ to clever political satire about the alarming immigration policies in Trump’s America. Heavily referenced throughout the hour is Gianmarco’s ADHD diagnosis (from his girlfriend), a point which gives the fast pace and sharp pivots from one topic to another some context. Even so, the show is not disorienting. Gianmarco’s comedy is sharp, well-crafted and well-timed; he understands when to amplify the theatrics and when to prolong a silence. He is clearly an accomplished performer who is only going from strength to strength (unless his prophecy of getting cancelled for one of his jokes comes true).

His original run has sold out, but there are still tickets available for the extra show at McEwan Hall on the 23rd. The show is a must-see, and I hope that such a successful debut means he’ll be back at the Fringe in future!

 

****

Reviewed by Niamh

Monkey Barrel 3

14.50

Until the 24th