This show is put on as an homage to the late, great actor/comedian/singer Danny Kaye and performed by Australian comedian/actor Russell Fletcher and pianist Greg Riddell. The show is on at the fabulous Famous Spiegeltent, which is a lovely venue to while away the afternoon watching quality entertainment while listening to the rain fall down outside.
The show is basically the very talented Russell (who looks quite a bit like Danny Kaye) doing a number of the most famous of Kaye’s routines from his films and stage appearances. Throughout Greg plays piano and argues with Russell about the material, Russell keeps getting distracted and uses audience members for spurious purposes. There is a bit of audience interaction during the show but it is mostly in singing along with some classic numbers (words provided) and playing imaginary musical instruments. The audience was of all ages but the kids under about five did seem a little distracted. The older kids were spellbound, especially in the routines involving wordplay. The older adults were singing along with everything and I could almost hear a tear in the eyes of a few.
We have delightful comic routines from Danny’s most famous films (but not White Christmas – not in August) and a few special little pieces that I will not reveal, but there was Thumbelina, Wonderful Copenhagen, some of the famous moments from The Court Jester and more. I can think of few better shows for the whole family whether to relive your own childhood or to bring a little magic to your children’s day and can thoroughly recommend this performance.
Visit the Edinburgh Fringe website for booking details