This is probably one of the better free shows that I’ve seen. The Lovely Men are good actors, and their set is made all the more hilarious by their willingness to improvise in a limited venue; in the absence of a lighting technician they ring a bell to signify the end of a sketch. They’re under no illusions, it is all very back-of-the-pub, amateur comedy. But the back to basics approach actually works well throughout, allowing the audience to focus all attention on the actors. Despite being called The Lovely Men, it’s far from a clean show; but for a début Fringe performance, there’s plenty of potential.

Laughing Horse @ Jekyll and Hyde, until 17 Aug (not 15), 9.00pm.
tw rating 3/5 | [Stephanie Gray]