George Rigden @ Pleasance Courtyard
No one can compete with Player of the Year, George Rigden, or that’s what he’d have you believe
George Rigden is a clumsy yet confident idiot, asserting his dominance while simultaneously knocking over a bottle of wine with the guitar slung around his neck.
Forever attempting to woo an audience member, he soon comes up against her and her partner’s sharp minds and tongues. In fact, the biggest laugh comes from when Rigden’s led to believe he’s been mercilessly picking on his reviewer all night. There’s also an absolute howler of a joke about Budgie the helicopter, which although niche, really tickled the room, and the songs he powers through feature some great, unexpected reveals.
However, the act can come across a little lecherous at times; more creepy than similar performers. It may seem unfair to compare him to another comedian but his act invites it. And Rigden never quite shakes off the feeling of being a Nick Helm-tribute act. He doesn't reach maximum Helm either, turned up to 11. It only ever teeters on the dangerous, even after an audience member is confronted and banished to another row so Rigden can serenade his lady friend.
Towards the end of the hour, the tone shifts, making for a more confessional show than first anticipated. You do feel for Rigden but it grounds the hour somewhat and is less fun than the earlier parts of the show when he had his gauche guard up.
George Rigden: George-ous, Pleasance Courtyard (This), 1-27 Aug (not 13), 9.45pm, £6-10
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