Pat Cahill is an assured stand-up, plugging a down-beat but optimistic outlook on life through a combination of sing-along songs, anecdotes and poetry. Considering how sporadic and bizarre his topics are, Cahill pulls off the impressive feat of forming a cohesive whole. He goes to great lengths for his art, as evidenced by the huge amounts of chewing gum stuffed into his mouth in the name of a gag. Whilst generally a performer who feels easy to relate to, some of his attempts at audience participation barely raise a chuckle, particularly his underdeveloped use of balloon props. Nevertheless, although the audience proved a little flat tonight, there wasn’t much more Cahill could have been offered – he pretty much gave his all.

Pleasance Courtyard, until 25 Aug (not 12), 5.45pm.
tw rating 4/5 | [Jonathan Mayo]