Fest Best: Musical comedy

Showstoppper! The Improvised Musical

If you've ever wondered how a Viking musical performed in the style of Bob Marley might play out, this is your only logical port of call. In the space of an hour, the supremely talented cast team behind Showstopper! summon up a brand new West-end spectacular based on suggestions from the audience. Expect rousing musical numbers, breathless comedy and extravagant plot-lines, as compere/director Dylan Emery puts his cast through their paces. 

 

David O'Doherty

Who or what will make make the list of Dubliner David O'Doherty's irritations for 2011? Last year's Fringe saw him lampoon iPhone users, celebrity news and Facebook updates in his standout show, 'My Beefs 2010'. But O'Doherty's infectiously juvenile brand of observational musical comedy is not limited solely to personal gripes. Armed only with a child-sized keyboard and a formidable wit, the Fringe veteran can traverse vast and unexpected comedic territory. 

 

Mitch Benn

For something a little more caustic look no further than Radio 4 regular Mitch Benn. His songs range from playful parody (see 'Everything Sounds Like Coldplay' and the deliciously homicidal 'James Blunt') to the bare-knuckle satire of 'African Baby' and 'Happy Birthday War'. Expect a truly polished blend of music and comedy from a man who's been honing his craft since 1994. [Paul Burch]