Chris Forbes: Father Christmas – Monkey Barrel Comedy at Monkey Barrel 2

Was I surprised at the festive atmosphere inside the room at Monkey Barrel? A bit, with its dual screens with roaring log fires on both. Creating a feel of being inside an Alpine lodge and not a darkened room in Edinburgh. Especially when outside was a cloudy, grey afternoon, albeit tepid for August.

And then entered Chris Forbes in full winter technical gear wishing us a Merry Christmas. The audience’ minds were screaming no; this is not right but were quickly lulled into that warm fuzzy space that is Christmas.

As Chris was shedding a layer of blizzard proof garments we heartly sang Jingle Bells with all our might and the atmosphere was that of Christmas eve.

Was I disappointed it was Christmas? Absolutely not, what followed was a soulful journey through the yuletide period of the young Chris Forbes and his wish for KIT, the car from Knightrider. As the meander through his memories continued through a collection of family photographs and storytelling, it was difficult not to wander to your own family festive events.

From his dad’s creative Christmas cracker x-rated jokes, turkey stuffing, relatives turning up at the Christmas table, home cut Christmas trees and his auntie’s pre-Christmas garden centre emails. It was mercurial writing at it’s very best.

We actually forgot it was August in the outside world. It supported us in what was about to be a pivotal moment in the story.

A family tragedy that was to change the core of the festive period from then on. This was handled with compassion, thought and sensitivity without losing the gravity and not losing the unexpected humour. Who would have known there was a gravedigger of the year.

Chris Forbes is known as the third Murray brother Duncan, with Andy and Jamie, also a member of the Scots squad and a talented stand-up performer.

This was a personal thumbnail peek into his family Christmas life, delivered in a thoughtful and funny way, with laughs. It was hard not to be touched by the loss and emotions of their news on Christmas day. it re-enforced family values and connection.

I laughed, I shed a tear, I loved Father Christmas by Chris Forbes.

Chris Forbes-Father Christmasruns until the 30th August (not 17^th/24th), at 1.30pm. You can join the Festive cheer in Monkey Barrel 2 at 9-12 Blair St.

Tickets available at www.edfringe.com to guarantee entry or pay what you want at the venue.

Reviewer: Ross Mackie

Reviewed: 6^th August 2026

North West End UK / Theatre Muse UK Rating: