Considering how easy it is during the Fringe to slip into a comfortable pattern of blendable sketch shows and mediocre dramas, it was a real treat to become acquainted with the work-in-progress of Comedian’s Theatre Company - where the audience are welcomed by a charming host to listen (and interestingly, watch) the performance of two radio plays commissioned by the BBC, to be recorded in the Autumn. As the scripts are still in the process of development one naturally feels an unusual sense of importance, with each laugh being taken into account in the scripts’ ultimate solidification.
Itch: With a Twist comes with a very high recommendation, on the one hand for the novel factor of seeing the physical manifestation of an ultimately oral piece of work, but also for its charmingly honest writing that’s permeated throughout with a consistently intelligent and darkly accurate wit.
When faced with a piece of ‘new writing’ my natural state is unfortunately one of harsh scepticism that lies waiting in the dark, criticism whirring and ready to tweezer out the flaws, however in this case merit must be given to both the writers and actors, who presented us with an enjoyable, impressive and extremely entertaining hour of intelligent comedy that wrapped itself up nicely within the coats of two very different but equally successful plays. The Last Minute was an undecorated script that saw a web of potential suspects unravel amidst the aftermath of a murder in a bank – a fairly well-trodden plot, but humourously presented through the four uniquely entertaining characters. Subtle quips on current financial affairs were intertwined within the amusing dynamics of the group, with an endearingly innocent performance from Sara Pascoe.
Matthew Osborne’s Ceredigion afforded a similarly enjoyable half-hour, in which a high-flying London couple retreat to rural Wales for a spiritual enlightenment that doesn’t quite match the advertisement. The delightfully funny Welsh duo contrasted hysterically with the dry cynicism of the advertising exec from Notting Hill, the result being a dark comedy that at times touches upon the bizarre, whilst maintaining the naturalism required to foster a thoroughly enjoyable show.
Itch: With a Twist comes with a very high recommendation, on the one hand for the novel factor of seeing the physical manifestation of an ultimately oral piece of work, but also for its charmingly honest writing that’s permeated throughout with a consistently intelligent and darkly accurate wit.
