In his own words, Rory Marshall has created ‘an hour of extremely sad and pathetic characters’. He forgot to add ‘hilariously funny’. The first of these creations is AJ, a contestant on a very familiar TV dating show. The character himself is generic, cringeworthy and, as Marshall describes, pathetic in all the best ways. It’s a strong start and AJ becomes a recurring presence throughout. We’re also introduced to a man running a confidence workshop, a truly unhinged teaching assistant, and a kind-hearted charity worker knocking on doors. They are varied, fresh and relevant. 

All too often in shows like this, good character ideas are let down by jokes that don’t live up to their potential. It’s a real joy to be reminded of Alistair Green’s sketches when watching Marshall’s second character, a man trying to make conversation at a party where he doesn’t know anyone. The sketches last just long enough and none are dragged out longer than they should be. By the time AJ comes on for his last interaction with us, the whole room is in stitches. Rory Marshall is the real deal: sharp, funny and one to watch. 

Rory Marshall: Pathetic Little Characters, Pleasance Courtyard, until 24 August, 6pm; 21 August, 9.30pm; main picture: Rebecca Need-Menear.