Liam Withnail – Chronic Boom 4.5 ****

Liam Withnail – Chronic Boom 4****1/2

2022 Fringe saw Liam Withnail have a critically acclaimed show that sold out nightly and a lucrative series of gigs were planned for the autumn. But then in October he was diagnosed with ulcerative … Read More

Ivo Graham- Organised Fun 4****

It seems a long time ago that I first saw Ivo Graham at the Fringe as a young up and coming comic.

Obviously his star is still rising, Graham is always appearing on TV whether it is his stand-up … Read More

Francis Breen: White 3***

One of the Alternative Comedy Memorial Society’s permitted heckles is “we appreciated what you’re trying to do!”, and another is “encourage!”, both of which I would like to shout sincerely at Mr Breen’s firmly alternative show, which needs his audience to … Read More

Helen Duff: Lullabies 4.5****

One of the things art can be is transformative. The artist collects things or absorbs influences and experiences or assembles objects, then ruminates or percolates or remixes them, along with their own particular contribution, and returns to the world a … Read More

Rhys James : Spilt Milk 4.5****

It’s hard to believe that the very boyish looking Rhys James first performed a stand up show at the Pleasance back in 2010.  He has certainly honed his craft.  This is a slick, quick fire very polished performance.  There are … Read More

Frank Lavender: Be Funny 4****

The quintessential Yorkshire working man’s club man’s man, the type that even us kids of the 1980’s met at a smoky old bingo hall that Nan dragged us to. The one you see scoffing a pie and downing a pint … Read More

Amos Gill: The Pursuit of Happy(ish) 4.5****

Amos Gill is a straight. Aussie, white dude, apparently somewhat of a rarity at this years Edinburgh Fringe which he happily acknowledges! His show, at the Gilded Balloon Nightclub is loaded with very funny observations from his life and travels. 

… Read More

Leila Navabi: Composition 4****

This show sort of wanders around in three star territory for the first three quarters of the hour, leaving you wondering what the fuss has been about. Leila Navabi is a great performer, so this is by no means unenjoyable, … Read More

Annabel Marlow…is this okay?? 4****

Ms Marlow has a great voice, and in her opening gambit entreats us – and perhaps herself – not to wonder why we’re there, but rather to just enjoy the moment. The show has a throughline of reminders to ignore … Read More

The Alternative Comedy Memorial Society (ACMS) 5*****

The success of The Alternative Comedy Memorial Society, hosted by Thom tuck and a roster of co-hosts (Alexander Bennett at my showing; fitted right in and did an excellent job) is due in no small part to the following they … Read More