“A lot of fun […] one cannot deny the talent on display”
This is part of a series of shorter reviews from Edinburgh Fringe, August 2026.
Australian improvisers “Impromptunes” bring us a totally new musical, for one night only, based on the suggested title from audience members. A quick introductory spoof of Les Miserables’ “Do you hear the people sing?”, and then we are straight into it, with the actors getting a title from the audience and proceeding to dive into an opening number. This fast-paced intro certainly keeps us on our toes, but with very little audience participation (a single suggestion and no other way for us to become involved), it does lack the excitement of some other improvised shows.
That being said, where “Impromptunes” excels is in its variety of musical styles – we are treated to ballads, fun choreographed group numbers, and a show-stopping finale that invites the audience to film the curtain call. The show that I saw, given the title “Unicorns In Mars” from a keen audience member, even featured a rap battle between humans and aliens, which then descended into a hop-scotch competition. Such is the wacky comedy of improvised theatre, and I would not change it for the world.
There are some moments where the “Impromptunes” cast felt like they were not quite on the same page – a little talking over each other, or failing to pick up on some clearly sign-posted offerings presented by other cast members. It meant the show became a little too convoluted and silly at times, lacking the tightness of plot that usually helps to keep things grounded. The actors occasionally lack confidence in their lyrical abilities, trailing off in songs when they couldn’t think of rhymes, instead of ploughing on regardless with a line that doesn’t rhyme and hoping they get away with it. This is a lot of fun, and the cast are clearly having a blast, which makes this more enjoyable. One cannot deny the talent on display – there’s certainly something special here, it just needs a little more polishing.
Tom Morley, August 2026
“Impromptunes – The Completely Improvised Musical” plays at 4:55pm at Ermintrude, Underbelly, Bristo Square until 30th August.
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