It might be a surprise to have a comedian offer to do shots with everyone in the audience, but Seaton Smith makes it seem natural. In a show about trauma, the American comedian is able to take some dark topics, like abuse and slavery, and somehow make them fit into a comedy show – with only a few gasps from audience members. Smith does a fantastic job of working with the audience, never asking too many questions but quickly getting the “vibe” of those in the room from their reactions to jokes and going forward based on that.
As one can expect from a comedian from the United States, there are a few jokes that go over the heads of the non-Americans in the room, which doesn’t make the show any less funny, as Smith explains things to the audience or simply moves onto the next joke if those listening are a bit too lost. As an American, however, these jokes are brought to the next level, including a particularly great bit about biking in New York versus Edinburgh. This is a strong Fringe debut from Smith and one can only look forward to more in the future.
Seaton Smith: Trauma Bonding, Pleasance Courtyard, until 24 Aug (not 11), 8.30pm