Ronnie Neville has collected over 100 funny stories on travels that have taken him from Ireland to Australia, and he’s decided to cram in as many as humanly possible into the show. Red-faced and with eyes shining with enthusiasm, he tackles the task at 100 miles an hour, barely pausing for breath. I wonder how many calories I worked off just by watching him!
I punctuate each story with a sip of my drink and wonder in which pubs in Ireland I might find other such hyperactive, animated souls as Ronnie, sharing tall tales over a beer, but I can’t help thinking Ronnie is a one-off!
This former travelling salesman stumbled into a comedy career after promoting a friend’s show at Fringe last year. With the help of his Irish charm, a naturally loud voice, and a bollard (apparently), he not only sold out his friend’s show but also found himself an agent.
It’s Ronnie’s Ed Fringe debut, but he’s already tested his chops with live shows, including Perth Fringe. Here in Edinburgh, his performance occasionally feels naïve, but perhaps that’s part of his charm. His speedy delivery and Irish accent mean some jokes may get missed. Still, overall, his tales hit all the right notes with the crowd. An energetic debut from an engaging new talent.
Rating: 4/5
*Ronnie Neville is at Just The Tonic (Nucleus) at 5.50pm until 25 August.
For tickets: Ronnie Neville: All Irish Comedy | Comedy | Edinburgh Festival Fringe (edfringe.com)
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