There is a reason why Potted Potter is celebrating its fifth anniversary at this year’s Fringe. It is one of the most amazing shows you will ever see. Even as I write this review I am giggling away as I remember little snippets of the show. Although the charm of the production is watching Dan and Jeff perform all seven Harry Potter books in seventy minutes, I would happily watch these performers for seven hours. The show is the true definition of family entertainment as the humour has the ability to tickle and unite people of all ages. Jokes and parodies don’t just focus on the world of Harry Potter, as cultural references from Taggart to theatre in jokes are incorporated. My personal favourite is when Dan and Jeff prepare the audience to be plunged into total darkness when they unleash the magic of the ‘putouter’. Well, almost total darkness, as Dan highlights, there is a necessity for the emergency exits lights to remain lit. In these cases the content of the jokes are most definitely aimed at the adults but the execution of them is wonderfully silly so the children can find the fun with mum and dad. And then there are moments of the bizarre which are guaranteed to amuse even the coldest of audience members. Think Dame Judi Dench. In a beard.Reminiscent of a young Morecambe and Wise, the chemistry, timing and energy of this duo is faultless. Moments of pure joy can be found when Dan and Jeff leave the script behind and improvise off each other and the audience, ensuring the show is still fresh and exciting after five years. It is a magical show for everyone to enjoy, whether you are fan of Harry Potter or not, you won’t be able to stop yourself from laughing.
