Showing @ Pleasance Courtyard, Edinburgh until Mon 25 Aug @ 19:00
Many sketch shows are nothing more than a series of postcards – amusing (or not) scenes gone through and neatly concluded, with another one arriving a few moments later. Think of Little Britain, or almost any sketch output on BBC Three. Or indeed, BBC One.
The Beta Males have instead produced a tapestry – sketches stand on their own merits, until it becomes obvious that each is richly woven into a wider whole. A large amount of magical wishing cakes provide the eventual link – how it all fits together slowly unfolds into one of the most enjoyable hours at this year’s Fringe.
Several moments stand out – ‘Dads’ on tour’, where a genteel weekend takes a terrifying turn; a near-the-knuckle confusion between a guitar and a six-year-old; and a self-fulfilling bus stop prophet. They’re all far too good at what they do, with the portrayal of each story rooted in genuine feeling rather than caricature. Richard Soames has an especially expressive face, and an excellent line in looking hurt/anguished/like a kicked puppy, but there’s no lack of talent from anyone. They haven’t sold out, for reasons best baffled at with a large scratch of the head. It can surely only be a matter of time.