Explaining the Fringe show tradition of the sad bit 40 minutes in, Elaine Malcolmson declares that she’s going to do it at the top of the show to get it out the way. Her mum died alone during lockdown the same week as Boris Johnson and his accomplices were partying at Number 10. This turns out to be merely her first sad bit as this hour is subtly poignant as well as featuring impeccably constructed jokes. As quietly beautiful as the snowy landscapes that she loves, Malcolmson creates a moving meditation on loss with this story of her mother, the Sami people who live in the inhospitable environs of northern Europe, and of an adopted reindeer.

The gentle, low-fi delivery belies killer gags: the link between Mary Berry and Harold Shipman is revealed, Northern Irish sensibilities are examined and there’s an exclusive on the real reason dolphins are happy. Elsewhere there’s also a touch of absurdism in her choice of similes. This is a gem of a show that more people should discover. 

Elaine Malcolmson: Joik, Gilded Balloon Patter Hoose, until 26 August, 7.40pm; main picture: The Glee.