THE CONSULTANTS

The Consultants still hold the land speed record for quickest move from Perrier (Newcomer) nomination to Radio 4 deal, and with the intricacies of writing that characterise many of their sketches, it’s not difficult to see why. They are still the darlings of Radio 4, and rumours are currently circling about an imminent crossover to the land of the telly. But don’t let the Radio 4 label put you off: underneath the passive, calm, grown up exterior of these three sane looking men lie hearts of darkness, and a capacity for shock and awe that can often catch an audience completely off guard. As the Fringe is suddenly severely lacking in sketch groups, it’s great to see The Consultants appearing for the third year in a row, looking like crazy businessmen in their dapper suits and ties, and with that gleam in their eye unmistakeable for the mischief that lurks beneath. Justin Edward’s songs are a particular delight, and worth the price of the ticket alone, as you’ll be humming them for the duration of your stay in the Athens of the North.