Alexander Bennett’s Terrifying Smile – Heroes @ Dragonfly, Edinburgh

Writer: Alexander Bennett

Reviewer: Faye Hadley

Alexander Bennett, winner of the 1993 ‘Most Beautiful Baby’s Smile’ competition at Butlins, has had a tough year. These two facts form the basis of his latest stand up show. While the details of why 2016 proved to be so difficult are scarcely revealed, the show remains deeply personal and, for the most part, very funny.

Bennett’s comedy is witty and dark. He describes one routine regarding people’s judgement of Facebook activity as the ‘bleakest observational comedy on the Fringe’, which fairly well sums it up. His sharp interpretations of the world around him add a sinister spin to the everyday, for instance the purpose of the nostalgia created by resorts like Butlins. It is in these interesting and different observations that his strengths lie. The show has come from a dark place but he never allows it to feel self-pitying. It is well thought out and structured, with one of the jokes actually starting on the poster.

While the material itself is strong, there are some aspects of Bennett’s delivery that fall flat. The audience seems unsure of him and the slightly confrontational persona he adopts did little to ease them in, an unsuccessful approach that was never adapted. Bennett’s comedic style has an edge to it that might prove a little too sharp for some, and he does not seem especially interested in welcoming all.

Overall, the show is strong and a testament to Bennett’s skills. His style is unique and hilarious when successful. An enjoyable hour that shows a good deal of promise.

Runs until 27 August 2017 | Image: Contributed