Mick McNeill is clocking up the comedy miles. A regular on the Scottish circuit and fresh from opening for Connor Burns, he’s now stepping up with his debut Fringe hour I’m Not Anything. On this form, he’s showing exactly how that leap from tight club sets to a longer show should be done.

He kicks things off with a sharp routine about the classic “pub no entry” scenario — the kind of observational hit that immediately lands — but he really hits his stride when talking about being a ginger-haired Scotsman with a love of rap. It’s both self-mocking and oddly triumphant, and the audience are with him. Then comes a run on Scottish kids’ names lifted straight from towns — material that feels like the show’s peak… until he tops it with a killer routine about his deep resentment of other people getting compliments.

The writing throughout is first-class. McNeill has that rare knack of delivering material that feels quick, clean, and slightly off-centre — Tesco Meal Deals become absurdist high drama, posh-accented private school hijinks morph into something resembling West Side Story, and his riff on town planning is a sleeper gem that deserves to be heard by bigger audiences.

There are a couple of threads that could do with weaving tighter, but that doesn’t detract from the fun. What shines through is a comic voice that feels distinct and grounded. He doesn’t rely on gimmicks or padding; instead he builds strong material, lets it breathe, and knows exactly when to punch the line.

McNeill has all the promise to climb the comedy ladder fast. This debut proves he can hold a room, sustain a theme, and land laughs at pace. See him now — he’s definitely one to watch.

****

Reviewed by Steve H

Venue : Waverley Pub

Time 14.45

Until date 24th Aug