Dave Cross

1 minute read

Wednesday 20 August 2025 delivered highlights from bold new voice and famed Edinburgh regulars, perfectly demonstrating the depth of this year’s comedy offerings.

Reviews of the Day

  • Ivo Graham – Orange Crush (Pleasance Courtyard)
    Graham riffs charmingly on his favourite colour—orange—through anecdotes ranging from Irn-Bru and Wotsits to personal reflections on his mother’s MS, Swindon Town, and support for Palestine. While his confident presence may lack some earlier relatability, the show bursts with clever highlights, especially when skewering rapper Drake and satirising Eton privilege.
    → The Guardian review :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

  • Jamali Maddix – Aston (Monkey Barrel)
    Maddix delivers his trademark blunt humour with raw honesty—tackling topics like aging, toxic online culture, and identity with sharp, if uneven, social commentary. His mythic “racist utopia” sketch stands out for incisive satire and thought-provoking comedy, even if some edges don’t fully land.
    → The Guardian review :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

Still on the Radar

  • Comedy Awards Shortlist Announced — The 2025 Edinburgh Comedy Awards shortlist features standout names like John Tothill, Sam Nicoresti, Ian Smith, Katie Norris, and Ayoade Bamgboye among Best Show and Newcomer contenders.
    → Guardian awards shortlist :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

  • A Thriving Line-up — The Times continues to spotlight festival standouts, from introspective hits like Tadiwa Mahlunge’s journeys to sharply personal dread and personality.
    → Times Comedy Round-Up :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

  • The Best Jokes (Updated) — The Fringe’s top one-liners—Olaf Falafel, Adele Cliff, Johnny Pelham, and James Barr—show ongoing brilliance in succinct comedy.
    → Times Jokes Feature :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}

Highlights to Watch

Show Why Watch
Ivo Graham – Orange Crush Clever observational comedy, memorable for its warm wit and standout satirical moments.
Jamali Maddix – Aston Bold, boundary-pushing social commentary with strong comedic identity.
Awards & Word of Mouth The Comedy Awards shortlist and The Times’ listings continue to guide audiences toward more standout work.

In short: Day 20 captured the Fringe’s breadth—sharp satire, bold storytelling, and well-earned buzz, proving the comedy festival is still roaring into the final stretch.

Updated: