As Part of the Edinburgh Horror Festival, at The Banshee Labyrinth, Stand Up Horror sees actor, writer and tour guide Alex Staniforth concocting a wild and hilarious story on the spot from audience suggestions. The small size of the audience in the tiny bar space ensures that everyone has a chance to contribute and to feel part of the action, and this is perhaps the unique selling point of this unusual, brave and inventive show.
Part dungeon master, part stand-up comedian, Staniforth relies on just a few props a very quick brain and a bit of nudging in the right general direction to move the story on apace, although it is never far away from taking a very sharp turn! As the programme alludes to, every show here is bound to be very different!
Staniforth’s charisma and general enthusiasm for his creation ensures that the stream of consciousness does not ever come to a dead end. Playful, entertaining and inventive.
This was the last of nine shows in three days for me. Some absolutely fantastic creations which are all testimony to the hard work and dedication of all involved with this brilliant event. It’s been a scream, but that’s a wrap for the Edinburgh Horror Festival for another year.
Reviewer: Greg Holstead
Reviewed: 29th October 2023
North West End UK Rating: