As one of the rare sketch duos still operating at the Fringe, James Trickey (Burger) and Ted Milligan (Pint) bring different statuses to the partnership, with the smooth Trickey a working accountant and the jumpier Milligan, well, struggling a bit financially. Across these fault-lines and to better distinguish themselves, the long-time friends also emphasise that Milligan is bisexual and Trickey half-Asian, the latter providing a jumping off point for their playfulness with white icons such as James Bond and Father Christmas.
Chiefly though, they’re interested in compromised masculinity, with the most overt example a celebrated film puppeteer fielding questions at a Q&A session, a little too invested in his artform. Elsewhere, a pair of hardbitten US cops interrogate a perp with growling contempt, as much for detaining them from their chief’s birthday and dramatic offstage lives. There’s a very funny adventurer saga, in which the explorers’ lust for glory compels them to insanely macho lengths, as well as some amusing quickies. Rather too often though, as when a World War II veteran compares war stories with a contemporary paintballer, the humour never really outstrips its initial premise. However, their subversion of Richard Curtis’ Yesterday is an exception, adding twist upon twist. Rooted in the pair’s easy chemistry, this is a consistent hour of witty sketches.
Burger and a Pint: Treats for the Soul, Pleasance Courtyard, until 30 Aug, 4.15pm