Ever wanted to be in the live audience of a 1970s chat show? Now’s your chance. Yes, that’s right, duo Henry and Charlie are bringing back none other than Hot Concrete after 30 years apart. A chaotic show full of guest appearances, the chance to win wacky prizes, and plentiful surprises, it’s no wonder they’re making their way back to our screens. But as suspicious goings on create some jeopardy, will the two make it to next week’s episode? I suppose that’s up to you to find out.
From beginning to end, Hot Concrete: Too Hot (and Too Concretey) for TV is an incredibly inventive and hilarious sketch show that is a wonderful representation of what the Fringe is truly about. Jam packed with weird and hilarious lines, Hot Concrete is both brilliantly written and executed. But what really puts Hot Concrete in a league of its own is Henry Whaley’s and Charlie Billingham’s impressive ability to bring to life such a diverse array of characters. From a police sketch artist who’s obsessed with Olly Murs (and his tiny hat), to a rising celebrity entertainer who’s clearly comprised of one child on another’s shoulders hidden in a trench coat, their acting is exceptionally funny. These wonderfully strange characters are what add up to transport you to such a charming chat show for the night.
But really, the true stars of the show are Whaley’s and Billingham’s minds, as they have created and performed so comically the detailed elements that make up Hot Concrete, right down to their advert about killing gnomes in your garden. Their use of homemade props, such as a (tinfoil) memory reading device, further adds to the masterful hilarity of the show.
Additionally, their audience engagement was on top form throughout, from the minute we walked in right up until the end as we sung ‘Total Eclipse of the Heart’ together.
Ultimately, Hot Concrete: Too Hot (and to Concretey) for TV is a must-see for any comedy fans at the Fringe this year. You’re guaranteed to enjoy every second of the quick-witted performance.
Hot Concrete: Too Hot (and to Concretey) for TV is running until 12 August at Coorie, Gilded Balloon Patterson House.
Buy tickets here.
Image provided to The Student by Hot Concrete.