Whilst we’re busy doing our little ‘reviewer’ thing at this year’s Brighton Fringe, it became apparent that one of our clan had his own review agenda. He had taken up something called the 100 Pints Challenge, where he had a limited time to drink and review one hundred pints of Guinness!

A tough task, and we obviously respected his plight. So, with his needs firmly at the forefront of our minds, we headed to Middle Street and The Twisted Lemon – one of the best cocktail bars in Brighton, and a place that 100% DOESN’T sell Guinness… Yes, we can be dicks.

This spot never disappoints – Wrays Rum Punch and the English mojito often top our order, but we have to shout out the Banoffee Pie for sheer scene-stealing ability on this visit. It’s a beast of a beverage!

Thirsts quenched, we made our way to one of our most reliable Fringe venues, The Caroline of Brunswick (which we do know sells Guinness – see, not total dicks), for our date with Sam See, a Singaporean clown with a fast-growing rep on the stand-up scene.

We’re greeted by Cerberus at the bar, order our drinks, and take the familiar little staircase up to the venue, where we’re enthusiastically welcomed by our clown for the evening and shown to our seats.

Sam See may be an even better host than he is stand-up. A spark plug of positive energy, he eagerly explains the premise of his latest show whilst also ensuring everyone is happy and comfortable.

Government Approved Vote is a show about the power of voting – regardless of your opinion – and the tricks that all political parties use to win votes… all explained through the medium of ice cream!

This is a thoroughly entertaining and well-thought-out show, and the way the audience is used to direct the narrative means each night offers a refreshing take on the theme. A highlight from ours included a debate between two women in the front row over ice cream flavours that ended with the phrase “you Cadbury c*nt!” – a nickname that, judging by what we overheard from their group in the bar afterwards, may actually stick.

This is not heavy politics, as you’ve probably guessed, but it makes its point while also featuring some revealing anecdotes from our clown’s personal experience – including possibly the most unusual anti-bullying strategy in history.

Endearing, enjoyable and, most importantly of all, funny. We’d definitely catch Sam See again.

Clown Stars: * * * *

@Laughing Horse – Caroline of Brunswick, Brighton

You can find out more information on Sam See’s gigs, including The Asian Comedy Showcase at this years Edinburgh Fringe, on his website – mrsamsee.com