It was midday but, as host Mark Olver rightly observed, in Edinburgh-time it felt like the crack of dawn – which, along with its semi-serious intentions, initially made this comedy panel discussion an unappealing prospect. Yet despite Olver warning us that these comedians wouldn’t necessarily be funny (a matter of choice, not incompetence), this was one of the most entertaining hours I’ve had at the Fringe. The guests on this occasion (Thom Tuck, Alistair Barrie and Suzi Ruffell) weren’t under pressure to perform, but responded to Olver’s pertinent and flowing questions with a surprising honesty. Fascinating for aspiring comics and enthusiastic fans alike.

Just The Tonic at The Caves, 2-12 Aug, 12.00pm.
tw rating 4/5 | [Rachel Aroesti]