As is the fashion at the Fringe this year Brig Society makes heavy use of audience interaction. One of my favourite parts of the show came when audience members waved real paper money at Brigstocke, as per his request, and where then surprised when he took it from them. Funnier still; he refused to give it back.
This show is a contemplation on Prime Minister David Cameron’s Big Society project.
I suspect that if you’ve never heard of the Big Society that you will still enjoy the show. If you’re all too aware of the then I suspect you’ll enjoy the show even more.
This is political comedy.
Strangely it also feels like pragmatic political comedy. Brigstocke concedes the country has over spent but is equally sure the proscribed solutions are terrible. They’ll mandate the need for a Big Society.
He jokes at one point that the last half of the gig is an economics lecture rather than a comedy routine. It really isn’t. Big Society is comedy from start to stop. It just so happens he sneaks education in there. This set is a great way to learn stuff; to learn about the banking crisis or that Eton may be a very privileged school but is also a registered charity that successfully wins many millions in grants.
The Big Society isn’t all about the money: there is culture to.
I will admit to some unease as he explores issues like racism. Brigstocke rightly points out the double standards we have when it comes to national stereotypes and accents. Its not racist if its technically true, suggests Brigstocke, the Chinese do have linguist issues around “L” and “R” sounds.
I’m not convinced. Surely its racist if typically used as a racial slur and causes insult.
Phew! Heavy stuff! … I suppose that just shows the depth of the routine. It may be deep but it is funny.
Working the Rainy Hall like a pro, Brigstocke ensures the laughter keeps on coming.
I’ve seen a lot of comedy in the Fringe this year and Big Society has been one of my favourites.
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