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Nicholas Parsons's Happy Hour
Verdict: Variable chat show
Edinburgh 06 - Pleasance Courtyard - August 06 - 17:20 (1:10)
Nicholas Parsons's show is actually 70 minutes, but taking the extra ten beyond the title's promise as a bonus, he can pack out the Cabaret Bar in Pleasance Courtyard, selling out frequently.
However, the Radio 4 stalwart and Rocky Horror star doesn't entirely manage to ensure 'Happy' for even an hour's worth. Perhaps his CV means expectations are high, while the calibre of his guests - today Sue Perkins, Boothby Graffoe and Nick Pynn - is not up for debate.
The man himself, however, starts with audience banter. But it's often them getting the laughs. This is his Just a Minute role, but with experienced comedians. Would this section work if the audience wasn't sharp enough? Perhaps he naturally attracts a witty, confident audience. Maybe the offer of Smarties for smart answers is enough to ensure their best jokes.
Sue Perkins is a wonderful guest - when she got the chance. Nicholas Parsons's long-winded compliments don't turn into answerable questions - but, ever the professional, she always finds something to say, discussing her show, and chatting to interesting audience members.
Nicholas Parsons takes the risky approach of offering to answer any questions he's asked with a joke or an anecdote that's relevant. He doesn't always repeat the question aloud for the large audience, making it hard to tell why he ends up explaining washing his socks. His Glaswegian accent - and language to go with it - are a funny diversion from his usual Home Counties sound.
Boothby Graffoe is on form, making ad lib gags that reveal that Nicholas Parsons frequently pees in his garden, and acting out his conversation with his cat. He picks up his guitar, showing off his sound effects box to great effect, and singing The Ballad of the Budgie with violinist Nick Pynn - about a stalker who changes his mind.
Nicholas Parsons rounds off the show in a way similar to the rest of it. He plays his former pop hit - a bit of a disappointment, given his impressive comic pedigree.
Cast Credits: Compere - Nicholas Parsons. Guests today (alpha order): Boothby Graffoe. Sue Perkins. Nick Pynn.
Company Credits: Director - Nicholas Parsons. Technical Support - Thom Dowse. Production Co-ordinator - Maria Hanna. Producers - The Pleasance, Nicholas Parsons.
END
(c) Gill Smith 2006
reviewed Thursday 17 August 06 / Pleasance Courtyard
Fringe Report (c) Fringe Report 2002-2009
