Radio Forth on the Fringe opened its sixth annual showcase with a bang last night at Edinburgh’s Playhouse. This fun filled night of entertainment, hosted by Forth One’s breakfast presenters Boogie and Arlene, did not disappoint. For two nights they will present a pick ‘n’ mix of what this year’s fringe has to offer, featuring some big names in comedy, music, and physical theatre. Kicking off last night’s show was the hilariously funny comedian Jason Byrne, who quickly uncovered a member of the Edinburgh City Council responsible for transport in the front row. This poor gentleman was in for a rough time when the second comedian of the evening, Stephen K Amos, made his entrance to the stage, noting the similarities between the title of his show, ‘Work in Progress’, and the Edinburgh trams, leaving the audience once again in stitches.
In a festival where anything goes, Radio Forth on the Fringe certainly succeeded in presenting a wide variety of performances. Billed as the ‘biggest airband in the galaxy’, Airnadette’s exciting routine of synchronized air playing to film and song clips certainly grabbed the audience’s attention.
Circa Wunderkammer brought a completely new meaning to the term headstand, with one of the entertainers balancing three women on his shoulders and head at the same time. This lithe and acrobatic act was truly outstanding, leaving the audience on the edge of their seats with their daring moves.
Another unusual act that stole the show was ventriloquist Paul Zerdin. Admittedly, I was a little unsure about this act - until Paul unveiled that instead of a ventriloquist’s dummy he would actually be using audience participants. This took his performance to a whole other level in which the audience could barely contain themselves.
Musical performances were another big hit with the Wellington International Ukulele Orchestra providing a new spin on some classic and current songs. The audience was treated to intermission entertainment from Hot Tube Time Machine who supplied a lively interactive disco sing along.
The final musical act of the evening was a well-known fringe favourite; acapella group, The Magnets. With their flawless harmonies and fantastic energy on stage, the abundant talent of this group is remarkable. Using only their voices, The Magnets recreate instruments as well as vocals on songs such as Paolo Nutini’s ‘Pencil Full of Lead.’ This group gets better and better each year and are well worth checking out.
The night was a comedic triumph too, with laughs from the like of Zoe Lyons and Lucy Porter, as well as newcomer Gareth Waugh – winner of Forth One’s Cash for Kids comedy competition - who delighted the audience with their witty banter. Budding homegrown talent Waugh is certainly one to watch. Another Scottish comedian who brought abundant energy to the stage in his famous kilt was Craig Hill, whose dynamic act left the audience wanting more. Rounding off the night was more comedy from the thoroughly entertaining Sean Hughes. Drawing parallels between the show and speed dating, Hughes’ tongue-in-cheek manner ensured the audience’s night ended on a high.
If you are not sure what to see at the fringe, or just want a little taste of different performances, then this is definitely the show for you. Forth at the Fringe is a must see show; grab your tickets while they last!
