Comedy Club 4 Kids

Two Stars

Now in its fifth year, Comedy Club 4 Kids is something of a Fringe institution. It presents real comedians trying their hand at stand up for children, without the booze or the expletives. Such an innovative approach is always a bit of a gamble. The comedians are not announced prior to the show, and the quality of the show relies heavily on the lineup.

Tonight, compere James Campbell seems to be struggling for material, spinning off long-winded stories which don't seem to have a point. Similarly, Matt Green stumbles awkwardly through his set, relying too heavily on the audience to provide answers to questions which are then simply discarded.

Children are the toughest of critics and judging by the abundance of heckling and the distinct lack of laughter, this was a gamble many wished they hadn't taken. But don’t give up on Comedy Club 4 Kids. It's a fantastic concept and more often than not, a good show. [Louise Black]

Two Stars

This was advertised as a "funny" show with the "best comedians" but unfortunately it didn’t make me laugh as much as I thought it would. James Campbell was the first comedian who told a few silly stories about lions and giraffes which weren’t even funny! Some children did put their hands up to go on stage which maybe meant they enjoyed it more than me.

The second comedian, Matt Green made me laugh a bit more. His best story was about when his dad played a game with him on the first day of every month – it made him wet the bed! Lots of children shouted out throughout and I sometimes found that they were better at making me laugh than him.

The hour felt very long. I think it would be better if there were more than two comedians so there is more chance of one being good.  Next time, the show could be hilarious – all depending on the comedians, it’s just down to luck! [Fin Rutherford]