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.

Rich Spalding doesn’t like to take risks but there is one thing he is certain of – he knows how he wants to die. That may sound pretty morbid for a topic for a stand up comedy show but it is actually quite an interesting topic to make an hour worth of material about.

The show delves into stories related to his life – everything from friends being new parents to dating and relationships. Part of the show I would say is slightly slow burn however the other part of it the jokes come in quick and fast and the audience respond well throughout the show. One thing that is really fun about the show is that the jokes don’t always go in the direction you are expecting and that is a praise for the comedy of Rich.

When the theme of a show is focussed on death you expect it to be negative and dark but it is actually a voyage through stories that reflect on life and in some ways create an optimistic look at the topic which can be hard to do.

For a debut at the Edinburgh Fringe it is funny, engaging and well written. It may be a show about a death but don’t let that put you off seeing this show as it is going to be a show that you will not want to miss this Fringe.

Rating: **** 4 Stars