Abi Roberts: Anglichanka

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Given that Russia isn't exactly synonymous with comedy, it's not surprising to see that their standup imports to the Fringe are few and far between. Providing a happy middle ground, however, is Abi Roberts, who brings an hour that celebrates Russian language and culture in an almost incompatibly cheery fashion. 

Anglichanka in the native tongue means "English girl", and that's the role Roberts occupied when she was whisked away to study at the Moscow Conservatory. She's fluent in both vocabulary and guttural vocal range, engaging the audience in a mass throat-gargling to imitate the accent. She's passionate about Russia and it adds to her charm, particularly when she begins chatting away to a Moskovian couple in the front row. 

Unfortunately as a comedian her act is more akin to a series of surprisingly funny anecdotes from a relative, rather than crafted standup. She's performed in Russian to Russian audiences before (the first ever Brit to do so) so there's no doubting her authenticity; it's just a shame she never really propels herself beyond the realm of mildly amusing. There's singing, dancing, and even Roberts-prompted rose-throwing, although the variety of her talents doesn't compensate for the understated material. 

It's not often you're left disappointed by a comedy show because it didn't teach you enough Russian, but besides a few choice phrases there isn't much of a cultural exchange going on here. It's safe humour that lacks the cutting edge.