The Penguins, including a last minute substitute penguin, are very likeable. It is perhaps their biggest strength. The show begins with the three of them welcoming the audience and thanking them for coming, a device which can often seem awkward and jar with the rest of the show. However, with their genuine enthusiasm and soft Irish tones, the crowd quickly warms to them.
The trio take the audience on the epic journey of Barry and his encounters with a host of bizarre characters including a magnificently crafted centaur and a mysterious ‘human rat’. It is worth noting that the show is more story than sketch which gives us a chance to enjoy the recurring characters. They were adept at switching between their comic creations, and seemingly followed the rule that if in doubt add a funny accent. To be fair these were well executed and the high quality of comedic acting was a feature throughout.
The writing whilst sharp was fairly standard of Fringe sketch shows, and this would probably be the major gripe. The real success was down to the performers’ relationship with the audience. Some of the best moments were provided with off the cuff asides and crucially they were able to laugh at themselves turning their limitations in budget and set into amusing strengths. It is good solid funny fun and you can’t ask for too much more from a sketch show.
