one4review | On 14, Aug 2026

By way of introduction we are shown Freddie Meredith’s alter ego’s Instagram feed packed full of posts of his pre big night poses. This sets the scene. Freddie then makes his grand entrance and without saying a word, and it is with every nuance brilliantly acted out, that we recognise this character. He is the tragically un cool. He is the guy in the smoking area of a club that you try to, at all costs, not make eye contact with. Unfortunately, he is the guy desperate to strike up a conversation with you.

This is essentially a performance piece. There are no jokes. There are no punchlines but it is so clever. Freddie is excruciatingly awkward and socially inept. His way of engaging with people is to ask them if they need a light. He will then try to strike up some sort of conversation by enquiring what films they like or what they’re watching on TV. He suggests that Top Gear might be his favourite or perhaps Euphoria. Audience interaction is all initiated by asking if “they need a light”? There is some hilarious audience participation particularly in the karaoke section.

This is all building to one of the best finales to a comedy show that I have ever seen. Freddie has many acting credits to his name and it shows. The characterisation is brilliantly acted out. The narrative is both tragic and hilarious in equal measures, and if you want to delve deeper, it is a sad reflection of many of today’s Gen Z young men feeling lost and desperately trying to fit in.

A very clever, thought provoking hour of unique comedy. A very impressive debut. One to watch. Catch him while you can.

****
Reviewed by Margot
Until August 30th (not 18) at 17:50
Pleasance Courtyard (Baby Grand)