Didn’t get to the Edinburgh Fringe? Don’t worry, the Fringe has come to you, with three galas rotating acts shortlisted for Dave’s Edinburgh Comedy Awards.
The opening night first half showcased two impressive Best Newcomer nominees. Malaysia-born Nigel Ng cannily compared life here to his roots. How can we complain with tap water that doesn’t make us vomit, two-ply toilet rolls and Henry Hoovers?
Michael Odewale also reflected on his origins, in his case Dagenham. Odewale addressed knife crime alongside gags about dating and his strict mother with a deftness of touch that hints at a great future.
After the interval Goodbear, Joe Barnes and Henry Perryment, put an engaging spin on the sketch duo format. Their skits — Richard Curtis pastiches, war movie send-ups — tickled rather than shattered the template, but they were quick, slick and never outstayed their welcome.
Originality came from barefoot headliner Jordan Brookes, who won Edinburgh’s Best Show Award. Brookes’ rug-pulling style is a mesmerising mix of improvisation and meandering musings on the bleakness of existence. Doesn’t sound funny? Trust me, it is.
Oct 21 & 28 (0330 333 4810, nimaxtheatres.com)
