Festival review: The Election: A Silent Comedy; Bedlam Theatre (Venue 49)

I WOULD have thought that loads of Fringe shows this year would jump on the bandwagon of The Artist, which has revived interest in silent comedy techniques.

Apparently not, but one at least which embraces every iota of exaggerated body language and mimed drunkenness is this gentle, family-friendly romp. Three chaps – a candidate and two supporters – are waiting for the outcome of an election, with speeches to be prepared, celebration balloons to be blown up and disasters to be averted, such as the candidate’s desire to get roaring drunk.

Now, recent events may make it seem difficult to truly satirise our political class (chucking bell-ends at people, getting stuck on zip-wires, accidentally being Nick Clegg, etc), but one would have to work hard to really see a political parallel here: our heroes, who represent the Purple Party, are a hopeless bunch of chumps who can’t do anything right. Hmm.

Fans of Laurel and Hardy might enjoy the pratfalls, fights, food-gobbling, confused running around and general silliness. The three expressive performers exert themselves hugely and their timing is good, milking every situation for as many permutations as they can. A finale cleverly ties everything up and they’ve got my vote.

Rating: ***

Until 18 August. Today 6:30pm.