Comedy

All those serious, soul-exposing one-person shows that overwhelm the festival’s programme are all very well and good, but sometimes it’s nice to refresh the palate with some delightful silliness. Not that Justin Edwards' character creation ‘Jeremy Lion’ isn’t intelligent – the sharp one-liners and witty set pieces in this eco-themed show are all masterfully created and incredibly funny. In ‘Jeremy Lion Goes Green’ the red-faced performer is on a mission to become environmentally friendly after a talking polar bear bestows his shed with magical powers that enable it to travel across the globe. Along the way, aided by some imaginative costumes and pianist/sidekick Hilary Cox, he encounters oily seagulls, oceanic beasts and singing trees to demonstrate the effects of his ecological ignorance. As is his shtick, Lion’s at his funniest when sloshed, constantly inventing a neat excuse for a drink – the progressively boozy finale is a real gem and this bumbling creation is an absolute treat. Just don’t take the kids.

 'Jeremy Lion Goes Green' is at the Pleasance Dome at the Edinburgh Fringe, 20.20.

Whimsy and murder – two words not commonly found in the same sentence, but in John-Luke Roberts’ innovative debut solo show he combines them both seamlessly and to great effect. As the dapper performer explains, it’s less a ‘Whodunit?’ and more a ‘What did he do?’ constantly reminding the members of the crowd that they will be none the wiser to a murder he will be committing during the show. Misdirecting the audience with beautifully shot short films, brief character routines and individual insults towards each punter (I had a feeling my risotto was too dry), Roberts has created an hour which, despite lulling in parts, is structurally impressive, constantly inventive and playfully mischievous. Essentially a one-liner fest, the majority of the offbeat gags are hugely funny pieces of playful wordplay, and his aggressive relationship with offstage assistant Gareth is a delight. A unique, highly accomplished debut hour from a talent to watch.

'John-Luke Roberts Distracts You From A Murder' is at the Pleasance Dome at the Edinburgh Fringe, 20.10.

Australian trio Tripod have chosen a risky theme for their latest narrative based musical-comedy show by constructing an hour entirely based around ‘Dungeons & Dragons’, a game which the majority of an Edinburgh Fringe audience will know nothing about (other than that it’s the epitome of geekdom). Does it pay off? To an extent. Gatesy plays a D&D virgin who constantly disputes the actions of role playing fanatics Scod and Yon. This allows him to ask the questions the crowd members are thinking, and therefore provide a more satisfying experience for those not so familiar with game’s format. They’re joined on stage by jazz-singer Alana Stone who both helps and hinders the production – her breathtaking voice makes for some goose-bump inducing solo songs, but the dialogue isn’t as relaxed and flowing as it is between the longstanding three group members. An enjoyable if flawed hour of nerdy fun.

'Tripod Versus the Dragon' is at Assembly @ Assembly Hall, 21.45.