Review by Steve Bennett

Picture your mates’ best Woody Allen impression finding its way on stage in front of an autocue. Applaud and heckle as commanded by the flashing signs. Watch them murder your favourite clip from Dylan Moran or Victoria Wood. Have a few drinks first, just to be on the safe side. Laugh whenever you can, because this is an opportunity to see classic material performed, for the most part, without the talent.

It’s the premise here that gives the only guaranteed merriment. That, and the finale, a head to head slag-off between the two finalists, in which two strangers encounter the dubious pleasure of hurling insults at each other for five whole minutes. This is a guilty pleasure, reality TV-style.

Like pool and darts, there must be an optimum level of alcohol required to get the most out of this, whether or not you intend to perform. Reckon on about three pints, though the delightful contestant Bantercakes claimed to have sunk eight the night Chortle went, and carried it off very well.

This is not a show for a cosy date, mind; those who had the most fun had come mob-handed. Go, and try to do justice to Woody, Chris Rock and Smirnoff Ice. Remember, you stand to win a couple of beers and a copy of the Big Issue, which is more than you can say for a lot of shows on the Fringe.

Reviewed by: Chloe Smith

Review date: 1 Jan 2008
Reviewed by: Steve Bennett