Phil Ellis. Where do I even start with Phil Ellis? Let’s start where he himself starts the show – with a binbag over his head, in a cat costume, with painted on whiskers and singing Jellicle Songs for Jellicle Cats. Do I have your attention yet?
one of the finest and funniest comedians in the UK today.
Phil Ellis’ Excellent Comedy Show is Ellis’ tenth show at Edinburgh and there’s no doubt that he has earned his sold-out crowd at The Hive at Monkey Barrel. As a performer, Ellis is chaotic and furiously frenzied whilst also giving off very safe ‘weekend dad vibes’. Whether he’s speaking about the last good wink he had or the adventures of his scally grandad, Ellis consistently makes us laugh.
The hour is interspersed with songs, performed by Ellis and an impressive live band. Hits such as Starman and Wonderwall are lovingly performed in true Phil Ellis style. Others such as Downtown are hilariously screamed in audience members’ faces (I was lucky enough to be serenaded and am currently laughing writing this as I remember it.) The structure is seemingly non-existent compared to your average comedy show which is what makes this hour so unique. The energy that Ellis creates in the room is so palpably unpredictable, it’s incredible to think that he’s actually in control the entire time. He has the entire audience in the palm of his hand – as if we’re just watching our funniest friend tell the funniest stories… dressed as a cat.
From Tik Tok sketches to an incredible improv rap, this show has it all. With this show, I think Phil Ellis may be the first comedian to have completed ‘comedy’ at the Edinburgh Fringe. It’s a surreal and unforgettable hour which firmly cements Phil Ellis as one of the finest and funniest comedians in the UK today.
