Here at The Phoenix Remix, we have been sent some previews of shows heading to the Edinburgh Fringe. So over the next few weeks, we will be reviewing these so that you can keep an eye on them or potentially go and see them at the festival. The Phoenix remix will also be at the festival this year so we will be posting more reviews throughout August.

A chair, a microphone and a huge box shaped like a gift wrapped present – sounds like the beginning of a joke but this the the set up for the stage for Alfie Packham. I suppose a typical set up for a stand up, apart from the present and that prop automatically reels you in. Will it be used, will it be a part of the show or is it a prop? Considering that it the idea of a ‘gift’ is part of the title of the show it could go both ways and I will leave it to you to come and visit the show to find out what the true answer to the question actually is.

The one thing that is evident from the beginning of the set is that Alfie is really likable, he is warm towards his audience and creates this connection between them instantly. There is this constant laughter throughout and that link between comedian and audience stays.

The jokes are quick and follow each other fast exploring a whole range of topics from youth and the differences as you get older, relationships, Christian rock and even poetry!

Now, I will warn you, the show does talk about Covid and the pandemic at times – not in an emotional way, not in a political way but in a light hearted way that sort of sets up the section of the show but does not delve into it in a way that you would expect. Instead it is a section full of some really fun anecdotes and a fluffy cat!

There is audience participation but only very small so you have nothing to worry about as Alfie is very friendly and it involves a drum and only one person so you have nothing to fear if you are concerned about that. Also it is fun to observe how Alfie interacts with the audience – it is part of the show but not really relevant and that is what makes it fun.

If you are looking for a funny, heart warming hour of comedy with lots of fun jokes that the audience react well with, then this is the show for you. Alfie’s show is a great pace and it has some emotional sections but they are always followed by charming fun little jokes. It is a show that fits nicely into an afternoon of Comedy at the fringe.

RATING : **** 4 Stars