Review: Shaggers, Laughing Horse at The Walrus Hideaway- Brighton Fringe

(Photo Credit: Megan O'Neill)

A variety of comedians walk into a room. The host invites them to do stand up about sex and relationships, and they are more than up to the task. They walk out proudly having earned the title of ‘Shagger’.

This show has been around for a number of years, successfully selling out at venues and festivals all over the world. On the night I saw it, the guest shaggers were Dan Harding, Emma Cohen, Mark O’Keefe and Michael Fabbri. 

Rule number one: if you don’t want to directly interact with the comedian during the show, do not sit in the front row. A round of applause to Monty the art dealer, the subject of many a middle class joke and a truly great sport about it. 

An additional round of applause to the shaggers for expertly adapting to the ‘live’ element of live performance by vigorously milking the comedy out of these moments, especially when spontaneous hobbit music went off during the middle of a set and when a drink spilled all over Monty’s lap.

Different people have different senses of humor, so comedy shows by nature can be a bit hit and miss, but that’s the benefit of a night with mystery performers. It's a great way to expand your horizons and discover new favourites. 

The fact that comedians are given the chance to test out new material, as well as perform material from their repertoire, gives the show an edge because the comedians feel more relatable. It’s comforting to be reminded that the material doesn’t have to be perfect to be good and that things not quite going according to plan can actually be something to laugh about; a testament to the skills of the comedians. 

The show focuses on sex and relationships, featuring very explicit descriptions and a wide range of encounters that feel awkward but somewhat familiar. It's nice to know that actually relationships aren’t as clear cut as the Disney stories may make you believe and feelings aren’t always the easiest to navigate. Everyone is basically just muddling through and in some cases, quite literally f****ing around and finding out. The environment is shame free, and whilst there might be some taking the mick, there’s no judgement. 

Nik Coppin really sets the standard for what a brilliant compère looks like. There’s no underestimating the importance of this, without a good host, nights like this can easily crumble. Coppin is gifted at warming up the audience and setting us up for the night ahead by creating a sense of permission to laugh, which helps us relax into the casual atmosphere of the show. Additionally he is a gifted comedian and his banter and mini comedy during the transitions is some of the best of the night. 

A solid night out with a raunchy twist that will have you asking if there’s more to cum.

*** Three Stars

Age rating: Eighteen plus

Content notes: Strong language- Varied 

For more information and tickets: https://www.brightonfringe.org/events/shaggers/