Buy cheap tickets for Boozr
The Gently Progressive Behemoth
  • By Pete Shaw
  • |
  • 9th Aug 2007
  • |
  • ★★★★★

I have the distinct feeling that Fringe audiences are going to approach The Gently Progressive Behemoth a bit like Marmite. There doesn't seem much room for the middle ground of likes and dislikes for this absurdly surreal comic sketch show written and performed by Luke Roberts and Nadia Kamil. I absolutely loved it.

The writing is intelligent and searingly satirical. Take for example, Anne Bancroft, risen from the dead to play the part of reviewer of the show she is standing in. So expertly crafted I was crying. There's also a concise definition of infinity, and some ethical cleansing to boot.

I found myself eagerly joining in with the chants, holding hands with complete strangers and standing to attention. The hour-long routine zips by far too quickly, but it all makes sense if you're there. And you have to be there.

Reviews by Pete Shaw

Menier Chocolate Factory

Dracula, A Comedy Of Terrors

★★★★
Noel Coward Theatre

The Comedy About Spies *

★★★★★
Ambassadors Theatre

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

★★★★
Criterion Theatre

Titanique

★★★★★
London Palladium

Hello, Dolly!

★★★★
Prince of Wales Theatre

The Book of Mormon

★★★★★

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

The Blurb

Gag-sodden edification raging from the belly of the beast? Yes! Yes what? Yes please! Stars of 'Staggered Spaces' - 'Stumbling across it in the midst of 1000 more heralded lesser things, it just felt brilliant', Daniel Kitson.
Buy cheap tickets for Back To The Future
Buy cheap tickets for Boozr

Most Popular See More

Buy cheap tickets for MJ The Musical
MJ The Musical

From £31.00

More Info

Find Tickets

Buy cheap tickets for Les Miserables
Les Miserables

From £31.00

More Info

Find Tickets

Buy cheap tickets for Wicked
Wicked

From £31.00

More Info

Find Tickets

Buy cheap tickets for Starlight Express
Starlight Express

From £36.00

More Info

Find Tickets

Buy cheap tickets for TINA: The Tina Turner Musical
TINA: The Tina Turner Musical

From £13.00

More Info

Find Tickets

Buy cheap tickets for Matilda
Matilda

From £25.00

More Info

Find Tickets

Buy cheap tickets for Born With Teeth
Buy cheap tickets for Christmas Carol Goes Wrong
Buy cheap tickets for Into The Woods
Buy cheap tickets for Evita
Buy cheap tickets for Barmy Britain
Buy cheap tickets for Matilda
Buy cheap tickets for Sabrage
Buy cheap tickets for The King of Pangea
Buy cheap tickets for Spies
Buy cheap tickets for Wicked