Show Rating:

The annual show presented by Cambridge Footlights can be as much a turn-off as it is a draw at the Fringe. Judging by the amount of people in the queue despite it being a dismal weekday afternoon, many still consider it a show to catch.

Some comics, however, consider involvement in Footlights slightly embarrassing these days; not mentioning it in interviews unless pressed.

Sadly this year’s gang aren’t likely to be shouting about their involvement in this show in the decades to come either. Even the previously eager audience were soon responding with a polite clap at the close of the sketch rather than opting for an enthusiastic laugh.

The overall impression is lacklustre, and there’s a distinct feeling that there were essays to be written when the script was being completed, or that exam revision clashed with rehearsals.

The acting is poor and in the sketches where the performance is intended to be bad, such as in a mock living history skit, or the useless improv troupe, it’s difficult to tell which is part of the sketch or whether it’s just plain bad acting.

The script is weak, only on occasion hitting on a good idea or line such as the over-eager mate who accompanies his friends on their honeymoon. The whole show is in desperate need of a thorough overhaul and some punchlines dropping into place.

Footlights are pretty much guaranteed a venue at the Fringe each year based on past glories; rather than offering a disappointing half-baked attempt it would be far better to skip a year and let someone else take the space instead.

Reviewed by: Marissa Burgess