Staged in the Underbelly – marked by a giant purple cow – Tweedy’s Massive Solo Show is old-school clowning with a modern twist. Siri is his unseen partner, interacting via an onstage iPad that keeps distracting our titular clown (“Ooh YouTube!”) Wise children are quick to tell him to put it down, and we all embrace the hour of screen-free fun….
Dressed in bold primary colours with a shock of red hair, there’s no red nose but Tweedy is a clown through and through. He finds magic in the mundane, wringing out every bit of ‘funny’ from simple tasks like cleaning the stage, moving a ladder or playing an instrument.
There is actual magic too, or at least silly tricks that sometimes go wrong, and sometimes surprise. There’s some incredible misdirection to boot, no spoilers here but our family gasped at a running gag that kept catching us out! Let’s just say it’s no easy…feet.
Like a living cartoon character, Tweedy’s energy is both relentless and infectious. Although not a full house, this mid-morning audience quickly warmed to his zany antics and gentle interaction. Even when berating volunteers for ringing bells out of time, his character is so darn likeable that nobody really feels the fool.
There’s mime, juggling, balancing tricks, puppetry and – yes – even toilet humour! The comedy is delightfully daft, and even features pet iron Steve – who is led by the flex as a leash around the stage.
Tweedy has honed his craft and never misses a beat. The laughs come thick and fast, and there’s a real appreciation for skilled tricks using hats, feather and juggling boxes. A routine with a guitar and harmonica hits all the right notes, and a ladder-based finale is a real…step-up!
The show delights all ages; there were giggles galore from the children, and proper belly laughs from their grown-ups. The novelty never wears thin, with Tweedy constantly shifting between stunts, slapstick, tricks and songs. Roll up, roll up and book now!
Find out more at www.underbellyedinburgh.co.uk/event/tweedys-massive-solo-show
Masterful clowning in an hour of pure silliness and joy…just what the doctor ordered!
Disclaimer: Tickets were kindly provided for this performance, however all opinions are honest and are our own.
