Review by Alex Mason

Two sock puppets sharing bad banter, shambolic songs, and a plethora of puns. Doesn't sound like much when you put like that, but Scottish Falsetto Sock Puppet Theatre has real charm, although is most definitely not for everyone.

This year they're performing a 'Socky Horror Show' homage to classic horror films. That is if they ever get round to it, the double act itself is the base of the comedy and the theme almost falls by the wayside.

This is a family friendly show, a strange cross between Punch and Judy and Morecambe and Wise. It's all good natured and silly, requiring a very highly tolerance of puns to make it through.

It demolishes the fourth wall, with enjoyable  back and forth banter and parody songs flung into the mix to keep things interesting. The originality is all saved for the premise, with the jokes ranging from amusing to intentionally dire. The whole thing is a quaint shambles with missed cues, costume changes, and put-on lack of professionalism that's also used to poke fun at the show itself.

The 'duo' shine at improvisation, reacting surprisingly well to things happening in the crowd, despite surely having little to no sight. It's unclear how many of the disasters were legitimate, but if staged they were performed perfectly with hilarious saves.

Despite going down well with the audience, this is uncompromisingly safe family fun. The style may be alternative but the comedy isn't. Some people will adore this show, others will be bored to tears. Either way, it knows its audience and plays to them perfectly sticking to its strengths without ever trying to be what it isn't.

Review date: 24 Aug 2012
Reviewed by: Alex Mason
Reviewed at: Gilded Balloon Teviot