ONE of the highlights of our Fringe last year, was seeing Five Short Plays Loosely Linked by the Theme of Crime. So we made the decision to return to see Charles Edward Pipe and team for this years show.

We were not disappointed. Four plays with three fine character actors who carve out wonderful characters and caricatures.

It was a steady start as we couldn’t quite get to grips with the train robbers story but what carried it was the quality of the acting and interplay. As well as the bizarre concept. This is comedy of the imagination and there should always be time for that.

The fact is that every character his so well defined. The tenant with a plan for a will. The Yogi “male” Lady Macbeth and the two gangsters.

Reflecting on all four plays, there was real room for them all to be expanded. In some ways, it is like listening to the sampler segment on I-Tunes.

To be honest, this reviewer came all the way from Essex for the puns and the final sketch did not disappoint. High steaks made his day! And as for batted an eye. Worthy of Police Squad (YouTube it kids).

We do believe that Charles is a very talented comedy writer and would love to see his material expanded. We would love to see more presence on social media.

There is a danger he could be a hidden talent and that would be a shame.

The packed house loved this. They laughed all the way through and clearly showed that in 2024 there is a “market” for good old short form situation comedies. Even those that include 19th century whales.

Recommend: Five Stars

https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/four-more-short-plays-loosely-linked-by-the-theme-of-crime