Standing in line with my ten-year-old daughter, we overhear people talking excitedly about Tweedy, and how we’re so lucky that he’s taking a break from the Cotswolds. Having not been to a circus for a few years, our interest is piqued to hear people so enthused about this near-sell-out show. Tweedy is a Scottish clown who has been a staple in the acclaimed Giffords Circus (which travels the English countryside during the summer months) for 16 years. Along with Sam, Madame La Reine, Reuben and Lulu, Tweedy has decided to create his own circus.

The story goes (very loosely) that Tweedy has promised a spectacular show to Madame La Reine, with incredible acts like a tightrope walker, a band and even a vampire. Think something akin to a spectacular 1900s circus cabaret show; in a Spiegeltent no less. But as you’ll see when you first walk in, Tweedy’s Massive Circus is not so massive: it’s minuscule in fact. But don’t let the small space fool you. And be warned: sitting in the front row is a rash move.

Tweedy and sidekick Sam are a comical and loveable duo who, from the very start, are reminiscent of Laurel And Hardy (actually, the first act, which involves a piano and stairs, has shades of the Chuckle Brothers: ‘to me, to you!’). With their mastery of slapstick, whether pretending to fly, walk over a tightrope made of tape or throwing plates and biscuits around, this show keeps the crowd entertained right to the end. 

This isn’t one of those circus shows that are only funny to little kids: it’s recommended for ages 3–93, and they’re not wrong. The clown and his troupe have us (and most of the other adults too) crying tears of laughter for most of this laugh-out-loud show (when we’re not holding our breath). Tweedy and co incorporate classic circus skills such as tiny cars, juggling and tightrope walking, alongside more unusual, modern elements (a toilet TARDIS, time travelling and a dino aerialist). Although tiny, this may be the best and funniest circus show in the UK.

Tweedy’s Massive Circus, Underbelly Circus Hub, until 21 August, 1.05pm.