Stephen Buchanan is one of those comics who makes it all look so easy. Twinkly, likeable and naturally funny, he’s riding high on having grafted hard on his craft.
He’s trying something a little different from his straightforward, traditional stand-up here, projecting onto a screen the titles of his routines, and peppering them with pre-recorded clips in which he assumes the pantomimish character of his agent, who’s trying to persuade Buchanan to take on new revenue streams.
It’s fun, but not quite as strong as his stand-up material (some of which incorporates the screen), which offers subtle twists on observational and storytelling comedy. If you think you’ve heard all the jokes there are about getting on the property ladder, Buchanan will change your mind: his line that mentions doctors’ receptionists is pure gold.
Similarly excellent are bits about a killer having his confidence eroded, and a mindfulness app revealing a very contemporary concern. There’s truth in his work, but it’s worn lightly and joyfully.
Comedy fans in Scotland already know what a gem Buchanan is (he was 2018 Scottish Comedian of the Year and the first Scot to win the BBC New Comedy Award and does a lot of writing for television and radio) and he deserves wider recognition.
You’re going to have to move fast to get tickets, as this show will surely sell out.
Steven Buchanan: Charicature
13.30
Monkey Barrel 2
Until August 27
tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on#q=%22Stephen%20Buchanan%3A%20Charicature%22
