It’s a truth universally known that the Channel 4 hit Come Dine With Me started out as a serious cooking programme that escalated into a bitchy rat race. In this musical hot take, we see the eyes, ears and brains of the show in the guise of a timid sound engineer, a camera operator and a fearless producer who alienates her crew in an attempt to hike up viewer numbers through controversial means. 

To humorous effect, the contestants represent the Come Dine With Me archetypes: the snob, the vegan, the carnivore and the girl next door. Each of them presents their contrasting world views and culinary skills (or lack thereof) through distinct musical numbers. The conflict that ensues, however, isn’t between the contestants but the crew. 

While you’ll spend the entire musical wondering when the skit about sore loser Peter Marsh and ‘sad little’ Jane will appear, this behind-the-camera view is enjoyable for anyone who has ever caught an episode. The TV show’s formula lends itself well to a Fringe hour, with a dose of sincerity and light comedic relief, without breaking any boundaries. 

Come Dine With Me: The Musical, Underbelly Bristo Square, until 25 August, 2.20pm; main picture: Mark Senior.