Leonard had always avoided chilli. In a Venn diagram of foodstuffs, he couldnt see why the circles of flavour and self-harm would ever need to intersectLeonard Feels The Heat is a comedy storytelling show about a man who decides to spice up his life in the most literal way possible - by entering a chilli-eating competition. It's a warm, funny tale about one man's insatiable quest for glory and is written and told by award-winning comedian Mark Allen. Fittingly, this show is being performed a mere pebbles throw from the site of the very Brighton chilli-eating competition that inspired this tale.The show was due to be performed at the Brighton Fringe in 2020 before COVID threw a spanner in the works. Mark performed a separate storytelling show called Leonard The Conkerer at The Electric Arcade in May 2022 and is really excited to bring his latest daft tale back to the Fringe (global pandemics permitting).

Since you’re here…

… we have a small favour to ask. We don't want your money to support a hack's bar bill at Abattoir, but if you have a pound or two spare, we really encourage you to support a good cause. If this review has either helped you discover a gem or avoid a turkey, consider doing some good that will really make a difference.

You can donate to the charity of your choice, but if you're looking for inspiration, there are three charities we really like.

Show me the charities

Mama Biashara
Kate Copstick’s charity, Mama Biashara, works with the poorest and most marginalised people in Kenya. They give grants to set up small, sustainable businesses that bring financial independence and security. That five quid you spend on a large glass of House White? They can save someone’s life with that. And the money for a pair of Air Jordans? Will take four women and their fifteen children away from a man who is raping them and into a new life with a moneymaking business for Mum and happiness for the kids.
Donate to Mama Biashara now

Theatre MAD
The Make A Difference Trust fights HIV & AIDS one stage at a time. Their UK and International grant-making strategy is based on five criteria that raise awareness, educate, and provide care and support for the most vulnerable in society. A host of fundraising events, including Bucket Collections, Late Night Cabarets, West End Eurovision, West End Bares and A West End Christmas continue to raise funds for projects both in the UK and Sub-Saharan Africa.
Donate to Theatre MAD now

Acting For Others
Acting for Others provides financial and emotional support to all theatre workers in times of need through the 14 member charities. During the COVID-19 crisis Acting for Others have raised over £1.7m to support theatre workers affected by the pandemic.
Donate to Acting For Others now