Jack Brookmyre: Impressionable comedy review – More than impressions
A promising Fringe newcomer blends sharp impersonations with smart observations
Newcomer Jack Brookmyre may have done himself a disservice with the title of his Fringe debut, Impressionable. While the show’s bio describes him as ‘Scottish comedy’s up-and-coming impressionist’, this promising hour reveals that the Glaswegian is far more than just an impersonator. Brookmyre, in his own words, looks like Harry Potter, ‘if he was a school shooter’. Drowning in a sleeveless denim jacket adorned with the badges of his favourite heavy metal bands, the 26-year-old holds the small stage at The Stand incredibly well, regaling the audience with irreverent takes on World War II and his casting as ‘a gawky wee guy’ in a recent Irn-Bru advert (his scene did not make the final cut).
Instantly endearing and clearly well-read, there are shades of Christopher Macarthur-Boyd in Brookmyre’s performance. His parodies of politicians and celebrities are solid, though it’s his insightful exploration of communication in the fake news era that leaves a lasting impression.
Jack Brookmyre: Impressionable, The Stand 4, until 30 August, 6.55pm; picture: Trudy Stade.