Review: NewsRevue, Fringe 2026

What am I like? The world’s longest-running live comedy show (47 years!) that’s older than me, and I’ve only just learned about it – but, what a delight now I’m finally here. When I arrived at Pleasance One, the queue was significant – so much so, it was broken up into various scattered segments you had to go off and find.

On this night, the show was also running approximately 15 minutes late! However, it was absolutely worth the wait.

Vibe

A uproarious musical parody comedy sketch show on all things political and current affairsy, with songs and sketches written largely by the cast and director – along with some additional material from former NewsRevue casts and some external submissions.

Performance

The show is made up of four cast members, plus an incredibly accomplished musical director on piano, and it’s an absolute treat, with hilarious skits and musical numbers featuring plenty of familiar characters. I think my favourite of the night was Nicola Sturgeon singing about the £400k her ex-husband embezzled under her nose.

Another notable mention was the character of King Charles, easily recognisable with the massive ears, crown and literal sausage fingers – all of which kept falling off during a particularly energetic performance. The rest of his family also make appearances throughout, along with Trump, Louis Theroux and the Granosphere, Keir Starmer, Andy Burnham, Nigel Farage and so many more!

I particularly loved the AI Hollywood actor skit, with the character of the comically creepy AI actor being particularly well done. The ozempic number was also really fun to watch, and call me weird but I particularly enjoyed the randomness of Wallace and Gromit making an appearance – the Peter Sallis impression was really spot on and I simply loved it.

Overall

If the real news is bringing you down, this feels like the antidote. A hilarious musical sketch show with great comedy performances that fill the room with laughter, as we’re given skit after skit after skit – with none of them falling flat. It’s a well-produced show and great value for money. I’ll definitely come back to see this again now I know it exists.