From the point of view of the audience, sketch comedy can be a very hit or miss affair, as you can either love or loathe the performers’ sense of humour. This is less of a problem with run of the mill troupes, as their skits are unlikely to push the boundaries of taste and decency, but with Fringe troupes it can be a huge issue.
Fortunately, The Durham Revue has reined in their surreal sketches this year and, as a result, has produced a show that is far more palatable than last year’s lamentable effort. Okay, there are a few skits that fall flat from being self-indulgently surreal, but the main body is very accessible, well conceived and undoubtedly funny.
With precepts such as an airbourne Luftwaffe virus, a Dutch mountain rescue squad and faked comas, Battered Wives & Chips certainly explores some strange corners of the psyche but it’s a lot of fun going down these less trodden paths with this talented bunch. Admittedly, a small number of their jokes are obvious but these are in the minority and the bulk of the material is enjoyable enough to gloss over these foibles.
After a year in the comedy doldrums, The Durham Review are getting back to form. They’re be no means at the top of their game but everything bodes well for their future, so keep an eye out for these cheeky wee scamps.
3/5
Richard Biggs
