This is part of a series of shorter reviews from Edinburgh Fringe, August 2024.
NewsRevue returns to Edinburgh for the 45th year in a row, bringing with it various sketch comedy that mocks recent news events, politics and celebrities. The show takes place inside Underbelly’s Udderbelly theatre, a giant, upside down, purple cow – a suitably ridiculous venue for such a ridiculous show.
The sketches were accompanied by music throughout, with various parodies of well-known songs and musical numbers. To begin with, a medley of Wicked songs saw the comics retelling the recent election, with politicians such as Starmer, Sunak, Davey and Farage amongst the impressions performed.
Later scenes focused on elderly Scottish women choosing to vote Labour instead of SNP and Starmer showing off his impressive diverse cabinet (now with women). Politics across the pond was also featured, with a Trump parody of Eminem’s “Guess Who’s Back” (Trump wearing a large bandage over his ear), and Biden deciding to give up running. Trump returned later on gameshow Blind Date, as people tried to “take him out”.
It wasn’t just politics that was mocked. Andy Murray gave a very short speech (literally a single word) about his retirement from tennis, and the football from the Euros final sang “You Kick Me Up” to the tune of Westlife’s “You Raise Me Up” (I told you it was weird!).
The show ended with a return to musical theatre, with a parody of Come From Away singing about the Edinburgh Fringe itself (“I am a highlander!”). This is a very funny show, with up to date references, excellent impressions and superb musical parodies. A must-see!
Tom Morley, August 2024
“NewsRevue” plays at Underbelly, George Square – Udderbelly until 26th August.
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