Freya Parker and Celeste Dring are back at the Fringe with a refreshingly light-hearted slice of sketch show comedy. Their well-structured selection of set-pieces and comedic episodes make for an enjoyable hour of entertainment.
There is a lot to be admired in this accomplished act from two sharp and very capable performers.
The duo inject a sense of fun into everything they do, running through a range of material which mixes offbeat physical sketches with conversational segments – from big-haired karaoke to relatable dialogue with a parent. Not all of the material lands, and a couple of the scenes, such as one which follows two vacuous Geordies trying to cross a road, run a little long, but when Parker and Dring do hit home it’s thoroughly enjoyable.
The real standout pieces emerge when the comedians delve into murkier territory, such as an incongruously affectionate dialogue between a couple of balaclava-clad would-be rapists. These darker moments bely the whimsical characterisation of the show offered by Parker and Dring at the start of the performance. The juxtaposition works well.
The show’s finale is another such moment, drawing together threads which have been woven throughout the hour into a satisfying conclusion which is both dark, cheery and ultimately funny. Although this Lazy Susan won’t leave you spinning, there is a lot to be admired in this accomplished act from two sharp and very capable performers.
