There are lots of monsters appearing at this year’s Fringe, but none so ugly as this one. The Big Ugly Monster is so ugly, he can turn a sunny sky to snow and evaporate a pond simply by dipping his toe in.

Inside, however, he’s lovely, lonely and badly in need of a friend. Based on Chris Wormell’s bestselling book, this charming tale proves how friends can be found in the most unlikely places – even ones made of stone. So unfeasibly unattractive is the monster, however, that the mere sight of him causes all his stone carved animals to crumble – except one.

Aimed at ages three and over, the show’s vocal narration comes from none other than Rik Mayall. And, given that this production is a madcap concoction of music, buffoonery and puppetry, Mayall’s slightly hysterical tones will no doubt add to the humour.

Pleasance Courtyard, 556 6550, 4–27 Aug, 1.05pm, £7–£8 (£5.50–£6.50). Previews until 3 Aug, £5.