So, the Edinburgh Fringe as just about to start! I though I’d do a few previews of some of my favourite shows up there this year as it’s pretty desolate comedy-wise in Bristol this month…
Tony Law – Maximum Nonsense, The Stand (August 1-17)
Tony Law continues to be one of my favourite comedians to see live and to watch him in the legendary venue that is The Stand is a must-see this year. He truly is a unique performer, with his thick Canadian accent he’ll have you chuckling at the most banal subjects, but it’s his delivery and friendly demeanour that makes audiences feel so at ease and able to let go and get ready for the big belly laughs. Looking more and more like a Victorian explorer lost in the Arctic just watching him prance about on stage is a sight to behold on it’s own. Highly recommended!
£8 (£7 conc.) More info at www.thestand.co.uk
Stewart Lee – Carpet Remnant World, The Assembly Rooms (August 2-26)
This will most definitely sell out so get your skates on and book! Carpet Remnant World is a show Stewart Lee has been touring for around half a year now to great acclaim. If you missed it here’s the perfect opportunity to see it fully developed in the great Assembly Rooms. Not the cheapest ticket you can get in Edinburgh but worth every penny. He explores the seemingly quite mundane subjects like looking after his son while watching Scooby Doo on TV, but with Lee’s childlike imagination mixed with adult cynicism, he can create comedy genius that can sometime have the effect of making you gawp in silent awe rather than laughing out loud. £15 (£12 conc.) More info at www.stewartlee.co.uk
The Blanks’ Big Break -Gilded Balloon Teviot, Debating Hall (Aug 1-27)
A little bit of silly fun here for fans of the hit US sitcom Scrubs. We have here ‘Ted’ from the show with his a Capella group The Blanks which frequently appear on the show providing comedy musical interludes. Already a hit on YouTube, this feelgood show is suitable for all ages with sketches, comic tales and of course singing. £14 (£12 conc.) More info at www.theblankswebsite.com
Tim Key – Masterslut, Pleasence Dome (August 16-21)
Tim Key is fast becoming one of the top acts to see in Edinburgh. He is returning with the show he bought last time, Masterslut, which might seem a bit cheating but if you had seen it, I think you probably would want to go again! Key treads on the very fine line between comedian, poet and artist in the most perfect way. Definitely not a normal stand-up show, be prepared for something different and beautiful. £14 (£12 conc.). More info at www.theinvisibledot.com
John Peel’s Shed by George Osbourne, Underbelly (August 7-12)
A lovely show that has been touring the UK this year has George Osbourne (not that one) telling the tale of how he won won a box of records that took eight years to listen to. He had won a competition on John Peel’s radio show, the winnings being this amazing box of records.This is an ode to radio, those records and anyone who’s ever sought solace in wireless. A heartwarming tale for music lovers. £11. More info at www.showandtelluk.com
