one4review | On 12, Aug 2026

If you’ve never seen Les Foutoukours before, you’re in for a treat! If you have seen one of their shows before, it only gets better here; this double act is not simply good performers but undisputed masters of the craft. Having previously seen Brotipo and NoVa, this show is a natural evolution of that brilliantly satisfying style. You could say more of the same but better; however, that somehow doesn’t do this masterclass in clowning justice. What works so well here is that they go against the grain of fast-paced high-energy Fringe shows and instead offer slow but very deliberate pacing.

The show has no dialogue which opens itself to all, with our double act (a sort of little and large combined with the chaos and the straight man routine) covered in beautiful fluffy white costumes and wearing clown makeup and red noses, they really are the perfect pair that showcase a assortment of circus skills but really the core of the show is how the pair use the space and skills while wearing bulky costumes to beautifully portray hesitation, fear and friendship.

There’s solo performances up the ladder that bring the word ‘art’ to mind, as does the beautiful diablo display. Tap dancing, juggling, acrobatics, you expect a Cyr wheel to turn up; there are so many things going on. It’s faultless. You aren’t watching performers at the early stages of their career; you’re watching the masters at work. All this is woven into a heartfelt show that uses infectious call and response with slapstick results.

This show is truly something for everyone. An absolute must-see for young families looking for a magical hour. You’ll leave with a sense of joy and wonder at this unforgettable quiet triumph.

*****
Reviewed by Matthew
Underbelly at McEwan Hall
Until 30 August (not 12 17 or 24)
15.00 (1 hour)