The word on the Mile - Fringe street theatre, snapped on the Royal Mile yesterday afternoon. Photos by Kat Gollock.

EXPO FUND TO SUPPORT BOOK FESTIVAL ANTHOLOGY
The previously reported Expo Fund, that's the pot of cash that will be funding the new Made In Scotland initiative at future Fringes, will also be funding a new project over at the Edinburgh International Book Festival. They have confirmed they have won £32.5K to enable them to commission and publish a compilation of original literary work by Scottish authors. The collection will be called 'Lights Off The Quay' and will feature work from the likes of Don Paterson, Janice Galloway, AL Kennedy, and John Burnside.

Confirming the literary loot, Scottish Culture Minister Linda Fabiani told the Book Festival crowd on Friday: "'Lights Off The Quay' is a fantastic publication and a fine example of how Scotland's tradition of literary talent continues with these fine contemporary authors. Such talent is what our Expo Fund is all about - showcasing great Scottish-based work at the Festivals and supporting touring opportunities to reach new audiences".

Book Festival chief Catherine Lockerbie added: "This is an incredibly exciting project, a whole new development for the festival".

The Expo Fund, by the way, is a Scottish Government initiative designed to support ventures that showcase and involve Scottish participants at Edinburgh's festivals. I tell you this because the other day when we reported on it I had no idea what it was.

--

MORE HERALD ANGELS PRESENTED
Another batch of awards for you and the second helping of Herald Angels. And taking a prize from the Scottish broadsheet this week was another Traverse show, the snappily titled 'Once And For All We Are Going To Tell You Who We Are So Shut Up And Listen' from former ThreeWeeks Editors' Award winners Ontroerend Goed. Also winning in the Fringe were the the African Children's Choir, the public face of a charity working to help children orphaned by the African AIDS epidemic, who have been wowing audiences at St Andrew's and St George's this Festival.

Prizes galore also for the International Festival, with EIF Director Jonathan Mills picking up an award on behalf of the State Ballet Of Georgia, who performed two shows at the Festival earlier this month as political unrest grew at home, and for the 'Song And Civilisation' concerts taking place at Greyfriars Kirk as part of this year's EIF. Other EIF winners included Polish performer Magdalena Cielecka, for 'Dybbuk and '4:48 Psychosis', and Scottish Opera for their production of Smetana's 'The Two Widows'.

Finally an Archangel prize was presented to the Jazz Bar's Bill Kyle for his busy and impressive Fringe programme this year, while the Little Devil - the award presented to those who demonstrate a real 'the show must go on' philosphy - went to Norman Lebrecht, for continuing with his Book Festival talk even when power failed plunging his venue into darkness.

Well done one and all.

--

Send in news: editor@threeweeks.co.uk

Answering the ThreeWeeks Quick Quiz today... Jane Hill from the Lunchbox Files

	1. What is your 2008 show all about? Three talented new comics tell jokes about life, love and lunch. 2. Why should we come and see it? See the comedy stars of the future for free - at lunchtime. 3. If your show was an olympic sport, what would it be and why? Rhythmic gymnastics. No particular reason - we just like the patterns they make with their ribbons.

5. What are you least looking forward to about this year's Festival?
Being flyered.

6. What advice would you have for someone trying to navigate the Fringe?
Support the Free Festival - loads of great comedy for no cost.

7. What advice would you have for someone trying to survive the Fringe?
There are healthy and nutritious foodstuffs available in Edinburgh that aren't kebabs.

8. Describe your show in three words
Funny, free, lunch-y.

The Lunchbox Files, Lauging Horse @ The Argyle, 1 – 25 Aug , 12.15pm (1.15pm), free, fpp 75

Even more reviews for you! Remember only a selection of our reviews appear in the printed Daily and Weekly, they all appear here in the eDaily. Enjoy...

Speedy links:
Books - Children's Shows - Comedy - Musicals & Opera - Theatre - Visual Art

ThreeWeeks Ratings Explained
1/5: Bad
2/5: Mediocre
3/5: Good
4/5: Very good
5/5: Excellent

BOOKS

Eugenijus Alisanka, Gintaras Grajauskas & Sigitas Parulskis - Writers of the World
Edinburgh International Book Festival
Listening to Lithuanian - a language I'd never heard before - in poetic rhythms and tones was quite hypnotic. Although Sigitas Parulskis' prosaic chants were strongly melancholic and self-doubting when translated, they contrasted well with the final reader: renaissance man Gintaras Grajauskas, whose witty snappy poems juxtaposed traditional religious allusions and modern day phenomena with 'The Frequency of God is 50Mz'. Sandwiched between these two was the third poet- Eugenijus Alisanka, who, as well as reflecting on writing as a profession, read a poem entitled 'Essay on Lithuanian Literature'. For a Moscow conference, he had been asked to write no more than 15 lines and the result was a brief analysis of Lithuanian literature- melancholy, self-reflective and apolitical.
Writer's Retreat, 12 Aug, 4.30pm (5.30pm), bfpp 15.
[js]

Robert Peston - The Heriot-Watt University Event
Edinburgh International Book Festival
Plain speaking and witty, Robert Peston sometimes had to rush through the huge amount of information he'd prepared to explain the credit crunch. He not only charted the recent boom and bust of the British economy, but how his attitudes towards global capitalism have altered. Like "the new Victorians, but with less philanthropy", Peston argued that the City fat cats, who've gambled on the market are not wealth creators, but wealth destroyers and, what's worse, many have made off with their gains, leaving the majority of people poorer and suffering other people's debts. He left the audience much more enlightened about the origins and possible future of the crunch, which can only be a positive thing.
ScottishPower Studio Theatre, 12 Aug, 10.30 am (11.30am),
[js]

Ziauddin Sardar
Edinburgh International Book Festival
Perhaps it's a sad reflection on our 'doom and gloom' culture today in Britain, especially when discussing ethnic integration where East meets West, but I found it really refreshing to hear such a light-hearted exploration of these issues from Ziauddin Sardar. A passionate but also funny speaker with a wealth of anecdotes from his own experiences, Sardar lent an interesting perspective on what it means to be British Asian today, many common misconceptions about Pakistani communities in the UK, and on top of all that a short intro to India's historical relationship with Britain and its legacy. Thinking back, I'm amazed at how much was covered, and so entertainingly, in the tiny space of sixty minutes.
ScottishPower Studio Theatre, Aug 14, 12pm, bfpp 22.
[sh]

CHILDREN'S SHOWS

Goldilocks And The Three Hoods
Dramawise
Do you remember your school play when you were 12? The one based on a traditional story with clever lines put in by the teacher to give it a modern twist? This is that play. There are no bears in this production; instead Goldilocks turns her family into a cack-handed criminal gang of three 'hoods'. It's performed by kids, but it's very hard to know who it's actually aimed at - supposedly it's suitable for four year olds, but I can't imagine a four year old being able to follow the confusing action, and I don't envy the poor parent who has to explain to a confused child why a deranged nurse is handing out Prozac and cackling insanely.
C, 10 - 16 Aug, 1.45pm (2.25pm), prices vary, fpp 13.
tw rating 2/5
[jwm]

Andrew Clover's Crazy Kid's Show
It is no surprise that this comedian and children's story writer is instantly likeable in his performance of make-believe fantasy. In this irresistibly enchanting hour of fairytale and comedy, Clover transforms all children into princesses and Buzz Lightyears, whilst parents are turned into giants and witches. He is nervous at first, but who can blame him, when he's trying to please an audience full of five-year-olds? He needn't worry though, as his imaginative creation quickly has its effect, and everyone is soon carried away with the make-believe. Children are asked to input ideas and Clover is quick-witted and thinks on his feet. Shout out when your hand isn't up though, and you'll be in trouble; slightly military perhaps, but it certainly gets our attention.
Pleasance Courtyard, 7, 14, 21 Aug, 11.30am (12.30pm), £7.00 (£5.00), fpp 10.
tw rating 4/5
[kc]

'I Can't Sleep' By David O'Doherty
Lisa Richards In Association With Edcom8
It's never fun to have someone storm into your bedroom, let alone have a whole audience traipse in while you're sleeping. David can't sleep, so to wake up Maeve he gets the audience to make the noise of her alarm clock, the dawn chorus, a rooster. Or the sea, and the ships in her dream. David's capacity to imagine the way a child does makes this enthralling viewing; the children do not have to be forced into entering this madcap world that seemed wholly improvised, and yet so convincing. By destroying any sense of the fourth wall, by playing hide and seek, by making a castle out of their mattresses, he made this show hilarious, adventurous and energetic. Bedtime will never be the same again.
Assembly @ George Street, 31 Jul - 25 Aug (not 11), 2.20pm (3.20pm), prices vary, fpp 14.
tw rating 5/5
[rs]

COMEDY

Homework For Heroes
Laughing Horse Free Festival
In this show four comedians take to the stage to talk about everyday events they have found heroic, before placing their hero on their 'hero scale', based on the audience reaction. The two girls of the group were considerably funnier than their male counterparts; particularly the compere, whose tales of singledom and monkeys were terribly funny, if ever so slightly sad (but it's okay, she has a man now). That's not to say the men were not enjoyable to watch, but their acts could certainly do with a bit of polishing. With an interesting theme, plenty of crowd interaction and, most importantly, a great attitude from the quartet, this is one of the better free shows at the Fringe.
Laughing Horse@Espionage, 31 Jul - 24 Aug (not 11), 2.10pm (3.10pm), free, fpp 58.
tw rating 3/5
[zh]

Adventures Of Pink Peter
Stuart Miles
It's bizarre seeing a man who you essentially grew up with - watching him jump out planes and adventure all over the world on TV - now in a dinky wee room at the Fringe, dressed as a woman, and sitting on the lap of happily married men. Yes, quite bizarre. Former Blue Peter presenter, Stuart Miles, does prove to be somewhat entertaining though, showing some of the menacing wit needed pull off the over-the-top females he impersonates. But by the end of the second diva, things do grate, and there's a tendency to annoy rather than entertain. The self-deprecating act does wear thin as well, and this 'Pink Peter' proves to be more of a novelty than a must-see.
Sweet Teviot Place, 2 - 24 Aug (not 10), 6.30pm (7.30pm), prices vary, fpp 22.
tw rating 2/5
[tm]

Amsterdam Underground Comedy Collective Presents Hans Teeuwen/Micha Wertheim - Micha Wertheim
Edcom8
Having been banned from a venue in Holland, Micha Wertheim certainly seems to go down well in Edinburgh. Gloriously controversial, he charms and shocks his audience in the same breath. Moments that verge on tastelessness are counteracted by his indisputable originality and off-the-wall approach to stand-up (who needs trousers when you have material like this?). He flaunts his impeccable timing and makes the stage his own with great physicality and a truly unique delivery - this isn't even his first language after all, a point he isn't afraid to make... several times. Tonight they loved him, others have hated him; either way you will have a strong reaction and if you ask me, it's worth the risk to find out.
Pleasance Dome, 1 - 25 Aug (not 11, 13), 8.30pm (9.30pm), prices vary, fpp 25.
tw rating 4/5
[fc]

The Bavarian Tradition Show - Free
Vroni Holzmann/Laughing Horse Free Festival
On a cold, rainy, Edinburgh night, you could do a lot worse than joining in the fun with Vroni and her busty friends at the Counting House. Let your wonderfully dead-pan and rather likable German host guide you through all things Bavarian, from the art of beer drinking, to German-style dating. I thoroughly enjoyed clapping, yodelling and whooping along to traditional Bavarian songs, all played on Vroni's accordion. If there's one thing us Brits have in common with the Germans then it's a love of beer, so there really is no excuse for not indulging in this free show. Prepare to link arms with your partner, jump on seats and get down with the Bavarians!
Laughing Horse @ The Counting House, 11 - 25 Aug (not 17), 10.05pm (10.55pm), free non-ticketed, fpp 31.
tw rating 4/5
[rsj]

Crazy Japanese Sit Down Comedy
Entertainer Without Border
I was misinformed about this show, as although it is certainly Japanese, it is neither crazy nor comic. Consisting of a mix of traditional Japanese entertainment, such as imitation Geisha singing, puppetry, storytelling and paper-cutting, it is simply under-rehearsed and poorly thought-through. Most segments of the show go on too long, until they lose the audience's attention, and often the performers seem to be begging for laughs. Some of the acts seem to be aimed at children, but it was not advertised as a children's show. In fact it is billed in the fringe guide as being "like nothing you have ever experienced"; this was certainly not false advertising, but it is also something I hope I never have to experience again.
Sweet Grassmarket, 9 - 15 Aug, 5.10pm (6.05pm), prices vary, fpp 42.
tw rating 1/5
[kk]

Jesus: The Guantanamo Years
Abie Philbin Bowman
Abie Philbin Bowman is back with the same show for the third year running, but don't judge him for a lack of new ideas. For this is a stand-up set that deserves as many followers as its esteemed subject matter, because it's full of clever takes on an old subject and, of course, there are plenty of laughs. It's for a limited run only, so try and get your ticket now for the final show, and witness Bowman's reasoning for why Jesus would surely end up being tortured in Guantanamo Bay if he were to rise again today. And it's hard to argue with any theory Bowman presents, because he delivers his material with an eloquence and charisma worthy of the man he portrays.
Underbelly, 5, 12 and 19 Aug, 3.55pm (4.55pm), £9.50 (£8.50), fpp 64.
tw rating 4/5
[tm]

Mac's Lyrical - Free
Mac McFadden/Laughing Horse Free Festival
Mac is a straight talking poet from Northern England who doesn't let his energy lapse as he tells stories about his childhood, puberty, and involvement with the army. This is not laugh-out-loud comedy though; there are some witty lines, but most of the humour comes from empathising with his experiences as the last boy to have pubes when he was growing up, or his realisation that he looks like his father. I enjoyed the informal atmosphere of this event, as it made me feel as though I was just a friend listening to his story, not an audience member at a comedy gig. Mac delivers his material without too much sentimentality (except for the slide show) and is certainly worth the trip to Leith Walk.
Laughing Horse Free Festival @ Meridian, 10 - 24 Aug, 2.55pm (3.45pm), free non-ticketed, fpp 75
tw rating 3/5
[zl]

Nature Revenge 2: The Revenge
Men with Bananas/PBH's Free Fringe
This performance really embraced its own trashiness, which was fun to watch with a pint in your hand. Basically, two self confessed geeks have spent hours trawling the internet to bring to you as many ridiculous clips as possible of killer ants attacking people, sharks eating various large objects, and giant flying rats (obviously). A little bit of computer wizardry and a running commentary provided silly humour with a pub banter feel to it, and a few laugh out loud moments. This is what Heat magazine might be like if Jordan and Peter didn't exist, and if Oliver Reid and Jaws had got married and ruled the tabloids. Be warned though: the squeamish, and those who take themselves too seriously, probably shouldn't attend.
Nicol Edwards, 2 - 23 Aug (not 28 or 19), 8.15pm (9.15pm), free, fpp 80.
tw rating 3/5
[km]

Nina Conti - Evolution
Mick Perrin for Just for Laughs Live
Nina Conti has a full house, and it's only the second full length show she has ever taken to Edinburgh. This is probably due to the fact that her show is mainly based around her unusual talent as a ventriloquist, meaning she has gained fame fast on the comedy circuit. Using her money-puppet as her onstage sidekick, the jokes come thick and fast. However, the gags aren't particularly sophisticated, mostly relying on the monkey saying her 'unconscious' thoughts, whilst she denies all knowledge of them. Although an entertaining and bizarre evening, Conti relies too much on gimmicks to get her laughs, and whilst her talent as a ventriloquist is impressive, her comic material is not of the same calibre.
Pleasance Courtyard, 30 Jul - 25 Aug (not 11, 18), 8.25pm (9.25pm), prices vary, fpp 82.
tw rating 3/5
[kk]

Obie - Total Recall - Half Scum, Half Genius - Free
Obie/Laughing Horse Free Festival
It's a confusing title, and an even more bewildering show. And not bewildering in that hilariously rambling Ross Noble way, nor that "how the hell did he do that?" Derren Brown way. No, this sort of bewilderment is the result of this being a mess of a show, entirely lacking in comprehension or organisation, that veers from the daringly funny to tired obscenities, all ending with a not very impressive memory trick that bears no relation to anything that's gone on before. Obie does have some talent when it comes to humour, certainly eliciting a few real belly laughs from the crowd, but he sinks too low too often. And there's just no need for bestiality in any art.
Laughing Horse @ Espionage, 31 Jul - 15 Aug, 8.30pm (9.30pm), free, fpp 82.
tw rating 2/5
[tm]

Shrimps Improv: Workshop Of The Day
Shrimps
When I woke up late for this workshop, I had to run, my poor body devoid of even a sniff of caffeine. Considering that coffee is usually the primary fluid coursing through my veins by 11am, this does not make for the best recipe for an admittedly unfunny person to try their hand at improvised comedy. During the workshop, the shrimps share with you the secrets of improv and use their wisdom to guide you with a gentle hand through the best ways to implement them. Nervousness is unnecessary when exposing you inner comedian, because they show you nothing but encouragement and support, and I had a surprising amount of fun with undoubtedly the nicest improv troupe on the fringe.
Sweet Teviot Place, dates vary, 11.00am, £5.00(£4.00), fpp 9.
tw rating 4/5
[mb]

Tania Edwards, Sometimes Interrupted
Tania Edwards/Laughing Horse Free Festival
Tania Edwards and some guest star comedy friends entertain the audience with witty stories, some good jokes and just generally hilarious chit-chat. The audience took some time to become properly involved - Tania herself being totally under appreciated - but after some very admirable hard work, the performers eventually managed to tease those big, hearty, belly laughs out of the audience. The last performer, Pat, literally talked for 10 minutes without taking a breath: he was very, very funny. The fact that this show is free makes it even better, so get yourselves on down to Leith and have a good old chortle.
Laughing Horse @ Edinburgh City Football Club, 9-17 Aug, 3.20pm (4.15pm), free, fpp 101.
tw rating 3/5
[lp]

Tealights Are For Lovers
Leeds Tealights Comedy Collective
Translating great ideas into a great show is a tricky business, and something even the most seasoned comedians still grapple with. Consequently, although the Leeds Tealights are probably a great laugh to have a beer with, their show was less of a riot. There were certainly some good ideas but the pace was more akin to a stroll on the beach than uproarious sketch comedy and the whole thing needed tightening up considerably. The boys' 'look' was effective and the show had a compelling yet slightly grotty, unnerving feel to it but the skits themselves often appeared under-rehearsed. That said, they were nothing if not entertaining and if their audience is mostly made up fellow students, they won't go short of laughs.
Zoo Southside, 10 - 25 Aug, 1.30pm (2.15pm), £7.00 (£5.00), fpp 101.
tw rating 3/5
[fc]

Idiots of Ants 2008
Idiots of Ants
Although Idiots of Ants use a traditional format, they do it well, working all the right techniques into all the right places, resulting in a very funny slant on contemporary culture and comedy. As a tightly-woven sketch show, the skits are perceptive and the four comedians extremely talented. Staged within the cosy confines of a port-a-Kabin, this show appealed to most age groups and they have used visual technology to their benefit throughout with two huge projector screens for those with a very short attention span. With its slight absurdity, 'Idiots of Ants 2008' is not too dissimilar to US comedy 'Stella' and surely, with some critical acclaim already under their belts, these four men are heading for bigger things.
Pleasance Courtyard, 3-24 Aug (not 11 or 18), 6.20pm (7.20pm), prices vary, fpp 60
4/5
[js]

X-Files Improv With Dean Haglund
Festival Highlights
An interesting variation on a classic, this is an improvisational show that uses a number of games that you'll recognise from Whose Line Is It Anyway. The twist is that Dean Haglund (who played computer hacker Langly from the X-Files) combines these improvised scenes together to form a brand new episode of the cult TV show. It doesn't matter if you're not overly familiar with 'The X-Files', as a broad pop-culture awareness of the show will see you through, while Garth-from-Wayne's-World-alike Haglund will cheerfully explain things as he goes along. The show is funny, if a little dependent on the audience members chosen to help out onstage, and Haglund himself is witty, disarmingly friendly and infectiously enthusiastic.
Underbelly's Baby Belly, 31 Jul - 17 Aug, 5.40pm (6.40pm), prices vary, fpp 110.
tw rating 3/5
[al]

Eros Vlahos - Problem Child
Eros Vlahos is a true child prodigy with a wonderful aptitude for comedy and a definitely bright future ahead of him. Just comparing him to the memory of my twelve year-old self reinforces the unique nature of his unusual maturity, a quality which shines throughout his performance. He exudes confidence and interacts with the audience with ease. Call me crazy, but I suspect that somebody taller than 5 feet may have assisted him with his material, although he's so comfortable on stage that the bulk of it must be his. Take your kids to see Eros; they may love you for it, or they might even be spurred on to try something like this themselves.
Sweet Teviot Place, 2-12 Aug, 3.50pm, prices vary, fpp 48
tw rating 4/5
[mb]

Gavin Webster - Webster's Pictionary
Stand Comedy Club
I have never seen such organised stand-up; Gavin Webster is surrounded by a computer, a TV screen, his folder of 'results', even a chest of drawers: this is obviously stand-up with a difference. Like a friendly uncle telling jokes at a family get-together, Webster is confident with his audience, which lends a relaxed air to the cosy room. His routine is great, with a few recurring themes; the comedy wheel proves his talent ("it has every subject any comedy has ever done, ever!"), and his audition tapes to help appeal to a wider audience are very funny. He can even play the ukulele - always an impressive skill - and his songs are clever and witty, making this show a fun (and organised) hour of laughs.
The Stand Comedy Club II, 30 Jul - 24 Aug (not 11), times vary, prices vary, fpp 53.
tw rating 4/5
[ks]

Goodbye Goodbye
The Undersigned
'Goodbye Goodbye' is actually a domestic assassination agency that's just masquerading as a narrative sketch show at the Fringe this year. Don't be silly, of course I'm only joking. Or am I? To be honest I'm not too sure anymore. This company use their wonderfully honed acting skills to blur the lines of reality, occasionally going out of character to emphasise a particularly funny gag. In addition, at one point one of the characters spots their ex-boyfriend in the audience and starts to chat to him manically. Of course this is just another of those great sketches, right? Right? Each cast member has a fantastic aptitude for comedy and, combined with the razor sharp script, they're definitely onto a winner here.
Sweet Teviot Place ,31 Jul - 24 Aug, 6.50pm, prices vary, fpp 55.
tw rating 4/5
[mb]

Learn To Play The Ukulele In Under An Hour (How George Formby Saved My life)
Erica Fee Productions and Ukulele Men
How can I fault a show that hands out ukuleles on the door and teaches you how to play 'Hit Me Baby One More Time'? I felt like a kid again, plucking along whilst we were told a very funny story involving the ghost of George Formby, a sensationalist biographer and a fan-club with a sordid secret. The ukulele helped these men battle depression and you soon realise why. While I could tell there were some hardcore ukulele enthusiasts in the crowd, it didn't matter if you were a novice, I defy anyone not to have a good time. By learning the basic notes, you too will love the strange little instrument and realise that things can "turn out nice again" (sorry).
Gilded Balloon, 30 Jul - 25 Aug (not 13), 5.45pm (6.40pm), prices vary, fpp 72.
tw rating 4/5
[lh]

Patrick Monahan Time Bandit
Patrick Monahan
This product of Irish and Persian parents has the triple whammy going on: interesting material, snappy delivery, and quick-wittedness. Monahan is a comic that you know will never be outsmarted by a heckler; several times the night I saw him he managed to retaliate off-the-cuff at lightning speed, provoking appreciative and raucous laughter. A lot of his humour is based on interaction, in fact, with many gags recycled from, or relating back to comments made at the start of the show about audience members' jobs, attire, or nationality. He does, of course, cover the show's title topic of time, also, effectively linking all his material on the subject together, and discussing the different perspectives of each generation. This is a skilled comic who's brave enough to continually interact with his audience to create laugh after laugh.
Underbelly, 31 Jul - 24 Aug (not 13), 8.35pm (9.35pm), prices vary, fpp 85.
tw rating 4/5
[zl]

A Poet's Work Is Never Done
Luke Wright
There needs to be a new category in the Fringe programme, because 'comedy' doesn't even begin to describe Luke Wright's visceral, wonderful performance poetry. From the horror of "cool mums" to the depiction of an emotionally exhausted, elderly army sergeant, Wright flows seamlessly between hilarity and pathos, and his audience are more than happy for him to take them wherever he wants. He comfortably commands the stage with a manic energy and his wit and insight mean that even tired subjects like MySpace seem relevant, while his frenetic, angry verses should strike fear into apathetic, Daily Mail reading Tory voters everywhere. Not "so bad that he's good" in a cool, ironic way. Just very, very good.
Zoo Southside, 10- 16 Aug, 9.00pm (10.00pm), £7.00 (£5.00), fpp 88.
tw rating 5/5
[gs]

Tom Bell & The Age Of Rockstar Death
Tom Bell/PBH's Free Fringe
Witty and intelligent, Tom Bell belongs to that class of comedian comprising non-offensive, very quirky, yet charming folk. Spinning around on cushions, and championing the results of a gentleman's degree to full effect (the show features a great 'wives of Henry VIII' audience skit), this language orientated comic with self-confessed facial alopecia performs with genuine charm, and delivers a mainly improvised set which preaches that "life is alright - despite getting old". Breaking out the poster paints, plastic plates and coloured paper ensured that the audience/performer wall was immediately broken down and was replaced by a strong, friendly connection as Bell beckoned in his audience and kept them in his grip. As enjoyable as Neil Buchanan making an Art Attack from jelly and ice cream.
The White Horse, dates vary, 2.55pm (3.55pm), free, fpp 105.
tw rating 4/5
[ab]

Joke-e-Oke
Mick Perrin for Just for Laughs Live
I've always been partial to a little karaoke and have the talents of somebody that has been gravely injured and is calling out for help. The worse the singer, the better the karaoke, though. Unfortunately this just isn't the case for 'Joke-e-oke', where contestants read gags off a screen; a bad singer is both funny and painful, a bad comedian is just painful. Still I think that it could work with a better audience (mine was made up of drunk Latvians who had no idea what they were reading) and better preordained jokes. If nothing else, however, it makes you realise that good stand-up is about a number of factors - a personality, a look, impeccable delivery - and not just a jumble of words.
The GRV, 30 Jul - 24 Aug, 9.00pm (10.00pm), prices vary, fpp 66.
tw rating 2/5
[gm]

Rogue's Handbook
Sketch shows are notoriously difficult to pull off, and Rogue's Handbook proved this, as they darted about the stage with their chaotic act. All the sketches were promising, but they mostly fell completely flat, for me, anyway; some of the audience were laughing, but they were largely the people with drinks in their hands (alcohol being an absolute pre-requisite if you're seeing a show like this). The actors didn't seem to care whether they got laughs or not actually, they were too busy picking on the short, plump one, or standing behind a curtain speaking into a microphone while we looked at a dark, empty stage. I'm all for free comedy, but this wouldn't be worth your time, let alone your money.
Laughing Horse @ Espionage, 11 - 25 Aug, 3.50pm (4.50pm), free, fpp 92.
tw rating 1/5
[ah]

MUSICALS AND OPERA

Company
EUSOG
It is Bobby's thirty-fifth birthday, and he is forced to endure the incessant gloating of his friends, all of them 'smug-marrieds'. Now that he has achieved this many years on this planet as a singleton, will he stick to his bachelor guns and stay alone, or relent and become one of them? This plot does not just generate the exhilaration that is usually drawn from this kind of all singing, all dancing musical; it gives so much more. This feels like the thinking person's musical because it maximises the intelligent and in-depth wit of the script, plus, unusually, the musical numbers enhance the plot and give layers to the characters, as opposed to just being an accessory to the story, as is often the case with the stage musical.
Augustine's, 4-17 Aug (not 11), 9.05 pm (10.55pm), prices vary, fpp 169.
tw rating 4/5
[mb]

THEATRE

Coming Up For Air
SenovvA & Alliger Arts
There's a reason that this jazz show is listed in the theatre section of the Fringe programme; with nothing more than a handful of instruments and a black box space in a Portacabin, Stan Strickland creates one of the most mesmerising and inspiring pieces of autobiographical theatre this reviewer has ever seen. It's jazz-based storytelling, with all the semi-silly clichés of beatniks on bongos that implies, but give it a chance, and invest in Strickland's story, and you'll come away with an extraordinarily personal and extraordinarily powerful experience. Strickland's talent for fusing music with his physicality and his thoughts is hypnotic, and weaving these elements together, he builds expertly towards a real climax that'll leave you shivering.
Musical Theatre @ George Square, 12 - 25 Aug (not 18), 5.45pm (7.00pm), prices vary, fpp 192.
tw rating 4/5
[rj]

JM Barrie - Beyond Neverland
Mercators
Founded in 1936, the Mercators are Edinburgh's oldest amateur dramatics society - an impressive pedigree - and here, for the seventh year in a row, they present a costumed tribute to a great writer. This year it's the turn of much beloved Scot JM Barrie to have various extracts of his writings and plays staged in a small and well-formed revue. The various performers are all, to put it lightly, of the older generation, but this doesn't distract. As theatre goes, it's not exactly an exhilarating spectacle, but the silver-maned Mercators have a distinct shuffling charm and a real love for their subject that shines through and captivates you; it's like listening to your grandad tell stories by an open fire.
Diverse Attractions, 11 - 16 Aug, 5.30pm (6.45pm), £8.00 (£7.00), fpp 208.
tw rating 4/5
[rj]

Jidariyya
Palestinian National Theatre
Jidariyya is a beautifully staged and poetically written work of art. It can certainly be described as high art, with its constant referencing of mythology and legend, and deeply philosophical, religious undertone. Mahmoud Darwish's words come through translation as a stunning flow of consciousness, capturing a moment between life and death, through sickness and dreams, and these lyrical wonders are presented with style and grace by the Palestinian National Theatre. Unfortunately, it was difficult to follow because a choice had to be made between reading the subtitles and watching the action. I think, however, that if one could speak Arabic or had prior knowledge of the story, Jidariyya would be an incredible piece of theatre.
Royal Lyceum Theatre, 14 - 17 Aug, 8.00pm (9.00pm), from £10.00, eifpp 11.
tw rating 4/5
[mj]

The Zodiac
Kazus Theatre
Kazus Theatre present a not entirely orthodox version of the creation of the universe, which includes God with glow-in-the-dark hands, warring elements and the historical story of the signs of the Zodiac. These young and extremely bendy Russians tell this strange tale through a visual feast of dance and mime, creating incredibly realistic representations of Zodiac signs, using only their bodies - festooned in brightly coloured lurex - and some crazy stunts with UV lights. It's pretty cheesy, and you'll find yourself giggling helplessly sometimes, but the skill of these incredibly young dancers was quite simply amazing. They also shower you with gifts of badges, scarves, CDs and bracelets as you leave. An unexpected treat all round.
St Mark's artSpace, Aug 2 - 15 (not 4-6 and 9), 21.00pm (22.15pm), £6.00 (£4.00), fpp 243
tw rating 4/5
[je]

Little Red (A Fairy Tale)
Aireborne Theatre
Little Red explores a grandmother's memory loss, the tales she has recorded, and the reality that amongst these are hidden the indicators of her family's dark side. It is a good concept but fails to deliver: the characters are fairly well played, but lack any real integrity or honesty. The two elderly characters are nicely physicalised, and the grandmother was particularly strong, but they were caked in aging make-up which made them look slightly ridiculous. The plot meandered and lacked cohesion, and several stories were begun but not followed through, plus, there were moments of awkwardness on stage, particularly from the soldier, and though the narrator was the only actor to evince real emotion, she was hampered by a stilted delivery that made the show lack pace.
Underbelly, dates vary, 1.50pm (2:50pm), prices vary, fpp 212.
tw rating 2/5
[dk]

The Taming of The Shrew
The Pantaloons
What a wonderful way to spend an afternoon...as long as it doesn't rain! Kick off your shoes, lie on the grass in the sunshine and watch this energetic ensemble play their zany version of Shakespeare's most controversial play (or so the group claim). There's cross dressing, slapstick, buckets of audience participation and a note sent by time travelling carrier pigeon to Billy Shakespeare demanding to know why some secondary characters inexplicably stop appearing in the play. It's of marathon length by Fringe standards, but they're an extremely likable, funny cast buzzing with kid-like enthusiasm, which will rub off on your kids, and on you. Take a picnic on a sunny day and watch the Bard as you've never seen him done before.
Dean Gardens, Aug 13 - 24, 2.30pm (4.20pm), free, fpp 234
tw rating 4/5
[je]

Once And For All We're Going To Tell You Who We Are So Shut Up And Listen
Ontroerend Goed, Kopergietery & Richard Jordan Productions
Normally a show featuring 13 teenagers would fill me with apprehension and not a little dread. However the direction and performance of this show was refreshingly in-your-face and highly innovative, managing to use the clichés associated with teenagers but not becoming swamped by them. I was full of admiration for the slick, poignant and often humorous performance.
Different scenes saw the same games, catfights and relationship arguments performed, and the audience are acknowledged when it suits the performers. The end scene looked so much fun, the performers so exuberant and don't-carish I felt wistful watching them. I left feeling sad and nostalgic for my dancing queen years and far older than the still youthful age of 24.
Traverse Theatre, 12 - 24 Aug, times vary, prices vary, fpp 220.
tw rating 4/5
[bw]

Crossing The Rubicon
Nottingham New Theatre
Sewing together the profound and the mundane to create a mature and moving exploration of confronting death, grief and of reconciling memories, 'Crossing the Rubicon' stirred me to a degree I wasn't expecting. The eight-piece cast all portrayed well crafted characters in this exploration of a young fatality in modern-day London. The cocktail of drink, drugs, broken families and relationships are all honestly and openly treated from the characters' multiple perspectives, and done without much of the watery, pretentious aspect that can easily taint such an ambitious social and generational commentary. Very emotional, personal and close to the quick, well choreographed and directed, and very well acted.
C Soco, 13 - 25 Aug, 12.00pm (12.50pm), prices vary, fpp 194.
tw rating 4/5
[ab]

Dogs Barking
Easy Tiger Productions
It's a shame this company chose to do this play, as they are good, but the play itself is pretty awful. It's the type of drama in which there isn't enough justification for the action: An ex-girlfriend and boyfriend argue about the flat they bought together when they were happy and in love, and now the woman has a new boyfriend and the man can't let go, making him bitter and resentful. I wish we had just stuck with this couple, but the decision to add two extra characters, one of whom was portrayed completely unconvincingly, simply ruined the show. It all descends into chaos towards the end, but the close of the play is poignant, proving that it could have been better.
Underbelly's Baby Belly, 14 - 24 Aug, 1.05pm (2.20pm), prices vary, fpp 196.
tw rating 2/5
[ah]

Fawn
Strings Attached
Geraldine Dulex's one woman show is based on her experiences of being in hospital with a serious illness. Sounds bleak, but the use of video projected onto a screen and onto the actor mean that this unusual show is visually stunning. The story can be a little hard to understand, filled with extended metaphors about being lost in a forest, but it's tied together at the end in a beautiful scene demonstrating the awkwardness of trying to chat 'normally' to a once vibrant friend, now wasted in a wheelchair. Examining the fear and confusion that illness and painkillers can induce, this thought-provoking monologue will leave you longing to get outside, to remind yourself that being alive is more than just breathing and eating.
Sweet Grassmarket, 11-24 Aug, 1.10pm (2.00pm), £7.50 (£6.50), fpp 199.
tw rating 3/5
[gs]

VISUAL ART

Foto: Modernity in Europe, 1918 - 1945
National Galleries of Scotland
It wasn't just the rather sombre nature of the subject matter that left me feeling a little down; it was the lack of creativity in layout. Nearly every photograph, of the same size, was displayed in the same way meaning there was no 'wow' shot to create excitement. I felt I plodded through, rather than explored the content, but if you're prepared to put in the effort, it does provide an insight into a turbulent period. The photo montages proved to be the highlight, often giving humorous comment on the political and social situation. Arranged chronologically, the content largely oscillates between portraits and snaps of industrial building and machinery. If you're up on your modern history, then it's worth a look.
Dean Gallery, 27 Jul - 31 Aug, 10.00am - 6.00pm, £6.00 (£5.00), fpp 133
tw rating 3/5
[sg]

Reviewer details are online at www.threeweeks.co.uk