A few years ago, I took a friend of mine to see Carl Donnelly for his first ever Fringe stand-up show. Since that day, he has become something of an uber-fan—attending gigs, subscribing to the podcast, going to live recordings, and, somehow, even getting involved in one. While I recognise that this might be an extreme reaction (some might even call it an addiction), it’s undoubtedly a positive one. So, when I needed a ‘banker’ to close two Fringe newbies’ first night, this was the comedian I turned to.

Over the years, Carl Donnelly has sort of become one of the Fringe’s cool uncles. He takes to the stage with his silver fox ‘Corporal Jones’ look and starts with, “Just so you know, I’m fine, honestly, I’m all good, mate.” It’s a throwaway line, but at a festival where everyone is revealing their latest diagnosis as part of their routine, it’s a great opener and sets the tone for the show—our comedian is happy.

The show covers a range of topics, from fatherhood and the success of his comedy peers (referring to himself as the Ben Thornley of the ‘Class of ’92’) to the correct way to groom a scrotum and the painful process of arranging visas to Australia, where he now spends half the year.

It’s this last topic that leads to the best routine in the show – a sort of homage to a classic Billy Connolly routine about having a prostate exam. I remember the original with great fondness and can honestly say that Carl’s version does it proud.

This is a fabulously entertaining show from a comedian who is exceptionally likeable and effortlessly engaging. He has UK gigs listed throughout the rest of the year, and we highly recommend catching one.

Clown Stars: * * * * *

@The Pleasance, Edinburgh