Ever wanted to be a lifeguard? Or just run slo-mo on a beach in your bikini? Well look no further: The Leeds Tealights are in search of new recruits for their lifeguard squad. Across a sketch-packed 50 minutes they show you the trials and tribulations of being one of their lifeguards – turns out it’s not all about doggy paddling (though that is one of the key strokes) – to see if you can pass the life-threatening test.
With their recent win at the Student Sketch Off 2025 and Fringe regulars for the past 20 years, The Leeds Tealights, Leeds University’s sketch society, were certain to deliver a good show. Making up the lifeguarding team is Charlotte Pine, Chris Louridas, Sumayya Ali, Toby Bowen, Serafina Coupe, and Annie Highton. Across the six, there was a huge display of talent, switching between characters seamlessly in a matter of seconds to bring the next punch of hilarity. While some of the scenes were loud and eccentric, others were more laidback and relatable, with myself able to match people I know with the personalities portrayed. There’s no denying that the writing of each skit was varyingly effective, with some receiving cackles while others left the audience largely quiet. However, the delivery of each one was always of a high calibre, from entertaining accents to hilarious facial expressions. Furthermore, any nerves were well concealed, mishaps were sparse, and the entire cast were in sync throughout.
But The Leeds Tealights are more than just the cast on stage. The group’s producers Becky Hughes and Daisy Brown do a wonderful job at ensuring each sketch moves smoothly from one to the next, with blackouts and a variety of voiceovers, music, and sound effects.
Full of imagination and comedic knowledge, SPF5000 is worth the watch for any lover of sketch comedy. Additionally, the huge potential of the groups means that I’m sure we’ll see their names again. A wonderful aspect of the Fringe is the opportunity for newcomers, which is why I would urge you to support these up-and-coming comedians.
The Leeds Tealights: SPF5000 is running until Sunday 30 August (excluding 18) at Just The Cask Room at Just The Tonic and The Mash House.
Buy tickets here.
Image by Abby Swain, provided to The Student as press material.
