Simon Feilder: All the Things I'm Not

Deceptively clever hour of self-deprecating comedy at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe
Simon Feilder is a master of misdirection. Under the guise of listing all the ways he fails to measure up as a man, he turns less into more by showing that the talent he does have is there in spades. Relying heavily on interactions with pre-recorded skits and verbal gags delivered by a projector – as well as the odd musical number – he skips from topic to topic, creating a picture of ineptitude. But as much as he protests his failings, it becomes clear that Feilder knows his way around a comedy convention or two and manipulates them deftly.
While the obvious pitfall lies in incorporating audio-visual elements in a live performance, Feilder’s use of the projector is seamless, providing some of the biggest laughs. Where the show stumbles is in the inclusion of some less clever material: a section about stereotypical gender roles and lots of penile humour.
With impish confidence, winning exuberance and a smooth premise that doesn’t fully reveal its cleverness until the hour’s end, this consummate self-deprecator delivers a great package. And if you think that last line was a dick joke, this is definitely the show for you.
Pleasance Courtyard, 556 6550, until 25 Aug (not 11), 8.30pm, £7–£9 (£6.50–£8).