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CSI: Crime Scene Improvisation

 
Isabella Thompson Review by Isabella Thompson 2 Published: 13 Aug 2024 Underbelly, Bristo Square Show Dates: 2 Aug 2024-25 Aug 2024

If you’re bringing improvised sketch comedy to Fringe, it has to be truly exceptional to compete with the multitude of renowned acts that return year after year. CSI: Crime Scene Improvisation promises big, but falls short.

Could it be that they are resting on their laurels?

The show follows the classic improv format within the framework of a detective story: the audience provide the victim’s name, occupation and murder weapon and the troupe flesh out the rest of the story, guided by a lead detective who addresses the audience. Other than a few votes via crowd cheers, the audience participation is infrequent and opportunities for plot prompts are missed, which would add intrigue and further spontaneity.

There are some standout members of the team that help drive the plot and ensure their fellow actors stay on course. Nevertheless, the dialogue often feels laboured as the performers strive to 'be funny', which (as many actors will know) breaks a key rule of improvisation. To their credit, the scene changes are very slick and premises are conjured up quickly, showcasing their talent for thinking on their feet. However, this is curtailed by scenes that become circular and lack focus, not revealing any further clues for the audience in the ‘crime scene investigation’.

There was a slightly lacklustre air to this particular performance, which was disappointing. Perhaps the halfway point of Fringe has caused some fatigue, but for a full house, it felt the team were relying on easy laughs and a generous audience. Could it be that they are resting on their laurels?

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The Blurb:

No one knows who the killer is, not even the cast! Following multiple five-star, sell-out runs, CSI: Crime Scene Improvisation returns with another rip-roaring crime comedy made up entirely on the spot. Winners of Best Improv, Leicester Comedy 2023. Who? What? How? The choice is yours in this fully improvised, witty and absurd murder mystery where the audience creates the crime. 'Quick thinking and fast-paced. A spectacular must-see' ***** (Bunbury Magazine). 'A novel idea, executed superbly' ***** (TheWeeReview.com). 'Hysterical murder mystery and a tight witty improv show' **** (FringeBiscuit.co.uk).