Tightly constructed madness, this solidly surreal set starts with one teasing toe in the mainstream before making its departure deep into left-field lunacy. Highlighting and subverting the tropes of generic comedy, Alderton creates crowds of persona all battling for the limelight – most frequently appearing is his Gollum-esque alter ego. Everything short of physically fighting himself, they bicker, argue, coerce, and debate. Using this inner discussion, he deals with hecklers and lays the foundation for future jokes. A master of sound effects and accents, he never lets himself fall into simple observation. Forever undercutting and usurping expectations, he is a delight to watch, even when he leaves the audience behind. This energetic surrealism is not to be missed.

Pleasance Courtyard, 3 – 28 Aug (not 15), 9.20pm (10.15pm), £9.00 – £12.00, fpp157.
tw rating 5/5
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