Tom Mayhew.GM Fringe 2023

There’s something a little special about an Edinburgh preview. Sure elements might not make it through to the final product. Things will change, become more refined. But a preview – there’s something sort of intimate about it – you see the comedian at work, where things have come from, and there are often those off the cuff moments and comments that won’t make it through to the final show. 

You see something a little more of the performer.

It also makes a review harder? How much will stay in the performance? How much will fall by the wayside. I can’t just literally write ‘go it’s really good’, can I?

I mean I could. Because it is. But lets expand a bit without giving too much away. Tom’s comedy comes from the heart, written about his home, his history, his family, his class. As someone with a working class background (it could be argued I snuck my way up to middle now) so much resonated.

Collectable Cherish Teddies (for an ex boyfriend’s mum it was anything crystal, for my aunt Franklin Mint plates, for my mum Folio books), beginning the year with a terrifyingly small amount in your bank account (I’m not sure that’s changed that much), and opportunities to stick it ‘to the man’ (or the supermarket you’re working for at the time who might not miss a yellow stickered curry). 

For all who listened, laughter came as easily as the nods of recognition. It’s funny because it’s true.

And whilst he might not be an obvious fit for the role of Delboy, expect a little entrepreneurial spirit in amongst the laughs and applause. It’s a sweet funny show with all the heart you could want. You leave happier, and warmer (and that’s not due to the lack of air conditioning).

I will leave you with a small hint though. Maybe, just maybe, don’t look his dad in the eye.

You can catch Tom’s next preview in London - 2nd August - Preview, Camden Fringe, London Or the final product in Edinburgh - 3rd - 27th August - Edinburgh Fringe: This Time Next Year, We will Be Millionaires!

Charlie Hoosen-Sykes for Canal St Media

More about Tom 

Published: 24-Jul-2023 (7194)