EDINBURGH 2019: Review: SNORT, Pleasance Courtyard

Have you even been to the Fringe if you haven't seen a comedian's impression of an exceptionally slow snake carrying a sushi platter in the Garden of Eden? God, I love improv.

This is New Zealanders SNORT's first year at the Festival, and they are utterly and brilliantly bonkers. Plus Rose Matafeo MCs, and who doesn't want more of her in their Ed Fringe schedule?

Each improv group tends to have their own particular style, and SNORT work with a format that the Upright Citizens Brigade started in New York. A special guest improvises a speech from a word given by the audience - think Radio 4's Just a Minute, except it's longer - and from that monologue the SNORT troupe improvises a series of sketches. This is great news for comedy fans who worry about being called on. All you have to do is offer a word and then they'll take it from there.

What's interesting is the relationship between the initial word that's chosen and the proceeding monologue. Sometimes the guest comedian can riff on the word incredibly literally, and sometimes you get a story about a summer camp romance from the word "water". The improvisers can't come up with any initial ideas from "water", because it could well end up as something entirely different. That's some bloody quick thinking they have to do.

This is fast, playful, insane improv from a group of pals who know each other like the back of their hands. It's an absolute joy to watch.

Also, Ray Badran - I accept your apology for accidentally kicking me when you went onto the stage to do your monologue, but I am coming to review your show next week, so...

https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/snort

Get Broadway News on WhatsApp

Receive the latest updates, breaking news, and exclusive coverage from Broadway directly in WhatsApp.