The Cambridge Footlights International Tour 2024 is back at the Edinburgh Fringe with its latest iteration. Founded in 1883, the world-famous Footlights are the oldest student sketch comedy troupe in Britain. Each year, they travel across the UK and North America, performing at major festivals like the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Notable former members of the Cambridge Footlights include Emma Thompson, Stephen Fry, Miriam Margolyes, Olivia Colman, John Oliver, and Sue Perkins.
It is special to witness such an established organisation at work
This year’s cast of seven, including Lloyed – a stuffed animal dog, presents a plethora of short sketches reminiscent of classic ’70s-style comedy. Their repertoire of over a dozen sketches primarily features scenes set in the US, involving US politics, culture, and accents. The show also includes references to historical figures like Beowulf and some historical overlaps between Jane Eyre and Jane Austen. While these sketches are based on satire, they fall short of fully addressing contemporary issues. Although enjoyable, this year's sketches feel more like a collection of lighthearted comedy rather than engaging with more profound themes.
You can tell the cast is enjoying their time on stage, and there is a palpable sense of camaraderie among them. It is special to witness such an established organisation at work. If you’d like to support student groups and possibly see some of the next generation of emerging comedians, look no further than The Cambridge Footlights International Tour 2024.
