Guilt & Shame: Going Straight - give it time, it's worth it.

By E.L.Hardy

'Guilt and Shame: Going Straight' requires a little patience and a little faith: Patience during the gritted teeth chortles of the first fifteen minutes where Gabe coerces Rob into following Clarkstiantiy - a religion founded by Jeremy Clarkson (the UK's favourite bigot); and faith in the two comedians to come good and find fault in their mission to complete the 'steps to normality.'

The set up, with its close to the bone comedy that you berate yourself for laughing at, is essential for the glorious pay off this show provides. Gabe is on a complicated journey of sexual discovery and Rob lacks confidence in his convictions.

The double act have such chemistry and rapport, working consistently on the same high octane energy level and creating complex and likeable characters. Far from your standard Edinburgh comedy show, this has narrative, an arc and even a twist. The two actors give exceptional performances - they have particularly elastic faces and pull off some cracking choreography. The show relies heavily on technical assistance; it has more sound cues than a musical and yet it was remarkably slick.

With cameos from some well known celebrities and some cringingly brilliant audience participation, Guilt and Shame is well worth a look. Have a beer, put on the hat they hand out on the door and celebrate the none too revolutionary conclusions that these two talented comedians come to.

★★★½ #UNBORING

Guilt and Shame: Going Straight.

Underbelly, Cowgate

31st July - 24th August (not 13th) 21.30

#reviews