Bagbeard is a sly parody of old-school science-fiction movies performed with zest and youthful energy. The three actors comprising Crybabies take on multiple roles, from an ambitious and good-hearted teacher through an alien monster, a rogue agent and small-town mayor (with a secret) to an evil scientific genius. While the story allows them to briefly visit all sorts of familiar tropes (a pagan ritual, a cheerful trendy vicar, the local busy-body), the plot and pacing are structured to hold it all together, and silly enough to allow their diversions.

^{Pictures: Rebecca Need-Menear}

The comedy is determinedly good humoured: a serious introduction which frames the alien as dangerous gives way to a cheeky romp that visits the outer-reaches of the universe and captures 1950s B-movie absurdities. James Gault, Michael Clarke and Ed Jones are confident in their various parts, and the DIY aesthetic offers plenty of opportunities for self-conscious amusement about the production itself.

Bagbeard, the alien, is a superb comic creation, speaking only a few words which lead to hilarious misunderstandings, and even the rogue agent is given a chance for redemption through love. Lightly mocking small-town insularity and vaunting ambition, this is a warm and fun show.

Reviewed at Pleasance Dome as part of Edinburgh Fringe.