Chris Washington @ Just the Tonic, The Mash House
A good natured show from Best Newcomer nominee Chris Washington
There's something admirable about the way Chris Washington is resisting the traditional debut show. Having lived an uneventful life, he has no real or small trauma to ponder or embellish into a poignancy-laced Fringe hour. His material instead is modest and mild: craftily-concealed confectionery, how to dodge the extortionate price of ignorance when faced with rogue traders, and an astute observation on the reasons dads give advice.
Washington's able to build a world out of this, and by the end we feel we know his diminutive pal Spud, or what it is like to find ourselves in a WhatsApp Cheese Club, and also to fall in love over the contents of a sandwich.
Where Dream Big stumbles a bit is in Washington's slightly nervy delivery, and a few punchlines get lost in a mild flurry. He does mention he's a bit excited today – and had been award-nominated only hours earlier. This contrasts to the easy-going vibe of his routines, such as on Brookside fandom and taking apart a Dyson. But altogether, he's authentic and like seeing a friend who is full of warmth.
Chris Washington: Dream Big (Within Reason), Just the Tonic at The Mash House, until 27 Aug, 5.40pm, £5/PWYW