★★★★
Every regular internet user is likely to know what catfishing is, particularly those with less-than-favourable online dating experiences. But clownfishing? That’s an altogether stranger phenomenon and happily a more enjoyable one (for you anyway). This new Free Fringe production takes a particularly wacky spin on how such drama can cause schisms in the family. It does so in a ludicrously and lovingly funny fashion that lets all three performers play to their strengths.
The trio all fill double roles perfectly. Such is the near-perfection of the casting that they can go from a dithery, dishonest old man with heavy breathing and a bad hip to a confusingly attractive young woman in a god-awful dress without apparently much effort. They never feel like they stretch themselves too far, but nail what they set out to do with a range of impressive and very funny comedic performances. So convincing they are, and so dysfunctional they become, that you end up worrying for their state of mind (in the nicest possible sense).
Clownfishing’s recurring gags always seem to hit the mark, which can feel like a rare treat in small-scale comedy shows. Their eccentric behaviours and a pitch-perfect blend of silliness and sincerity result in characters who just keep on giving, landing gag after gag with resounding success. Refreshingly, there is not much in the way of audience interaction. If you’re paranoid about being pulled up on stage or being made a fool of by the latest clowning ploy, you can rest easy. It lends a refreshing flow to proceedings that allows each one of the clowns to remain in their element.
An unassuming delight that pokes some jovial fun at family life and internet dating, Clownfishing proves to be thoroughly enjoyable. Some inspired character work and great performances make for a show that will trigger chuckle after chuckle as you revel in the oddity laid out before you.
Clownfishing is being performed at PBH’s Free Fringe @ CC Blooms until 25 August 2024 as part of Edinburgh Fringe 2024.
Words by James Hanton
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