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Out of the Blue

For the last eighteen years Out of the Blue has built a vibrant reputation as one of the finest acapella groups at Edinburgh. Not only great singing but a bright and endearing sense of self deprecating humour and some smart choreography. First appearing in 2003, Out of the Blue – consisting a rolling cast of graduates and undergraduates from various Oxford Universities (hence the blue reference) – have made the annual pilgrimage up north making their home in the George Aikman Theatre every day at 3pm. The eclectic selection of modern and old pop classics fuses together deftly and adroitly creating a delightful anthology which flies by in moments leaving a warm, glowing sense of satisfaction and happiness. It’s a show which really epitomes what the Fringe is about. 13 young guys with no other agenda than the sheer joy of performing drawn from all corners of the world coming together to raise money for their chosen children’s hospice and creating such a swell of joy as to be irresistible.

Faultless, joyful and simply, happily kind.

I’m Still Standing, How Deep is Your Love and many other pop songs unknown to this wizened old critic are all given the OOTB treatment and a big acapella hug embraces them all. The unity, the harmony, the communal delight is palpable in both cast and audience and though the latter was limited in size (it’s early days and the Fringe is only just kicking off) their satisfaction was tangible and the boy’s enthusiasm was infectious.

And if you want a finale to whoop along to with delirious happiness they have created something wonderful. I’m giving nothing away when I say it is a montage homage to one of the greatest bands on the planet. Oh, and there’s tap dancing. Slap bang in the middle of a close harmony show a pair of tap shoes are donned and, to the accompaniment of some top quality beat boxing, give us a dazzling display of footwork. What’s not to like?

I’ve been watching Out of the Blue on and off since my first year in 2007 and without doubt they continue to prove themselves the heart of the festival and the spirit of the Fringe. Faultless, joyful and simply, happily kind. Go spend and a hour of your time in their company.

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Reviews by Ian Billings

Assembly George Square

Les Dawson: Flying High

★★★★★
Assembly George Square

Out of the Blue

★★★★★
Gilded Balloon Patter Hoose

I Wish My Life Were Like A Musical

★★★★★

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.

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

Performances

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The Blurb

One of the Fringe's most renowned and best-selling shows is back for its 18th run at the Fringe. Expect vocal acrobatics, eclectic repertoires and ludicrous choreography! Whether you know them from making the semi-finals of Britain's Got Talent or from their legendary viral videos, Out of the Blue are sure to put a smile on your face. Out of the Blue are proud to announce that their show will once again be supporting Helen & Douglas House, the world's first children's hospice based in their Oxford home.
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