The idea is that comedians are naturally competitive, right? So if you put them in an actual competition, that’s sure to get some comedic results. It certainly works for Ed Byrne, one of tonight’s guests in a constantly changing line-up. Ed is antagonistic and sublimely funny, at one point chasing a heckler out into the foyer, screaming at him. What with this and some technical problems, the poker play of course quickly becomes irrelevant, but no one cares. This is the type of comedy I’m always slightly wary of – namely the vacantly looking at some other people bantering pub-style (hello, ‘Ricky Gervais Show’) – but here it works. Recommended even for those utterly clueless about poker.

Assembly George Square, 5 – 6 Aug, 11 – 14 Aug, 18 – 21 Aug, 25 – 28 Aug, 11.59pm (12.59am), £10.00, fpp136.
tw rating 4/5
[jh]