Political Collective Gone Mad

Article by Barrie Morgan | 13 Aug 2011

The less than desirable 'Death Slot' at The Fringe is a tough gig. Going up against other satirical and more mainstream shows, Political Collective Gone Mad is a great alternative brought to you by a few of Edinburgh's very own up and comers.

With five very different stand-ups and character actors the show is both intelligent and witty, hitting all the right notes. The News Race, an inventive take on the crazy year we've had in terms of the sheer magnitude of differing news stories, is a social commentary done in the guise of sports commentators and helps kick start the show and set the tone.

Gordon Alexander's eulogies are a highlight, especially when he takes himself out of character towards the end. Rick Molland's pieces are interesting and poignant. Ben Verth, Garry Dobson and Stu Murphy all help add to the complexity of the satire on show and ensure the quintet gel as a collective. From the Edinburgh tram crisis to Bin Laden's death, this is as relevant and thought-provoking a show as you're likely to find.

Clever, fun and deserving of a bigger audience.

Political Collective Gone Mad, Stand 2, Aug 5-28 (Not 15th), 23:40. Tickets from £7.

http://www.thestand.co.uk