The five members of the Durham Revue bounce onto the stage with a level of enthusiasm and exuberance that really only exists in twenty-somethings.  Sparkly eyed and ready for action, from the get go their enthusiasm is refreshing and completely infectious.

There’s a plane crash and a tropical island, and in order to find the means to escape they must perform an hour of sketch comedy. The skits are very varied, and the comedy gets better and better as time progresses. There’s a good mix of utter absurdity, plays on words, slapstick and downright silliness. The manual whisk being a personal favourite.

Cultural references are fairly universal and wide-ranging, with some clever touches. Dressed identically, the troupe presents as both cohesive and professional. A varied mixture of solo and group sketches gives all of the cast a chance to shine, and whilst some do work better than others, the overall melange is impressive and highly entertaining. A catchy soundtrack throughout and ongoing bouncing enthusiasm ensures good momentum and a certain slickness to proceedings. There is something here for everyone and even a dollop of audience participation.

It’s a talented group and all of the troupe give good performances; no more so than the frankly outstanding Alanna O’Hare, who at times threatens to steal the show (you’ll know which one she is). Self-styled as Australian therapist Ocean Breeze, her scene with members of the audience is hilarious and demonstrates an uncanny ability for reactive comedy. Her ability and charisma are quite special.

The original ethos of the Fringe was to showcase new and amateur talent and its pleasing to see such a high standard of student theatre. The Durham Revue can definitely hold its own against some of its better known rivals. You’ll leave feeling amused, energised, and imbued with a sense of their youthful joie de vivre.

‘Sketch Marks the Spot‘ is at Underbelly Cowgate – Belly Dancer until Sun 24 Aug 2025 at 14:30