We were welcomed by Assembly press manager Ian Cuthbert. People there included: Rachel Sivills (manager of this venue in previous years), Steven Gove (back again as venue manager at Assembly George Street), Charlie Wood (co-director, Underbelly), Tim Groves (Pleasance marketing). Vouchers were given out for drinks in the new Courtyard Bar (mojitos were weak but good). The showcase in the Assembly Hall was brilliantly compered by Jason Byrne and Adam Hills and began with the TAO drummers.

In his welcome, Assemby director William Burdett-Coutts mentioned his regret that some spaces at Assembly's home base in George Street were unavailable this year due to rot. He said that hard work during the year had allowed them to use the other spaces there. He spoke of retaining a lead presence for the Fringe in the New Town, and of Assembly's place as the bridge between the Edinburgh Fringe and the Edinburgh International Festival. He thanked a long list of Assembly core staff and wished goodbye to a few who had moved on. He welcomed new Edinburgh Fringe director Kath Mainland to the Festival Society.

The showcase continued with Alistair McGowan, back in Edinburgh after 10 years. Then came The Soweto Gospel Choir, fresh from performing with stars in America and winning Grammy awards. Kataklo Athletic Dance Theatre performed an awe-inspiring extract from their show Love Machines. Irish comedian Neil Delamere was wary about his routine due to young children in the audience, until Jason Byrne's introduction went far across the line.

Circa have come from a highly acclaimed run in London, and were equally impressive in this showcase, followed by the Pajama Men with their unique mix of stand up and physical theatre. Ali McGregor was followed by more comedy from Jamie Kilstein. The showcase concluded with New Art Club's comedy dance. And for many, a return to the bar.

(c) Caroline Pearce - Assembly at the Mound - Wednesday 5 August 2009 - (c) www.fringereport.com 2009