Thanks to the Five Pound Fringe, you dont need to be spending huge wads of cash to see quality stand-up. This show is one such example, in which three young comedians successfully recreate the warm, playful atmosphere of the best late-night comedy clubs, despite it taking place in the middle of the afternoon. Its a popular show; the room was full to capacity, and the audience were clearly enjoying the chance to see three very different styles of performer. The shows compere is Ben Van Der Velde, who manages to warm the crowd up effectively, largely due to his sheer energy. His set is mostly interactive, and his prepared jokes have a certain traditional appeal. He has a friendly presence, and the teenage girls in the audience particularly warmed to him. At the other end of the spectrum there is James Acaster, whose gauche physicality is inherently funny, a trait he knows how to use to maximum effect; the merest gesture can have the audience laughing out loud. Not that this anything as simple as a slapstick act; his material is extremely strong, and he is able to blend his anecdotes with some excellent improvisational moments. Sandwiched between the two is Andrew Doyle, an openly gay comedian with the kind of boy-next-door demeanour that immediately endears him to the audience. When he starts to delve into darker subject matter it comes as a complete surprise, but is all the funnier for it. He doesnt rely on shock tactics to get laughs however; the jokes are tautly constructed and hit all the right targets. Although relatively unknown, hes one of the most hilarious, intelligent and fearless comedians on the circuit. Its an unconventional threesome, but deeply satisfying nonetheless.
