What is love? If your response includes the words ‘baby don’t hurt me’ then you’re exactly the right person for this world premiere of a new musical, at a Fringe which is proving to be fertile ground for the form. This one is a direct address show (Six-style) about the fight to save love in a world that doesn’t deserve it. Our heroes? The world’s greatest lovers (natch) in boyband form (obvs). Sign. Me. Up.

It’s true the format places some restrictions on plot and script; there’s no real set to speak of and the endless quest to find a new, youthful audience for musical theatre means some lines are so of-the-moment that they feel a little throwaway. The boyband device leads to more mid-song key changes than are strictly necessary, too. But these are minor carps: you’d have to have a heart of stone not to fall for this high-octane, feelgood show. The cast of five don’t leave anything in the tank: slick dancing, gorgeous voices, tight harmonies, clear characterisation.

In true boyband style you’ve got to pick a favourite which is an impossible task but Jordon Bolden clearly relishes every second on stage, while Rickens Anantua’s gravitas grounds the whole piece. At its best, it’s smart and funny, reframing the lovers as influencers is an interesting concept, reminding us that we’ve always looked to others to show us how to love. Then again, love doesn’t have to be that deep. Like this show, sometimes it’s simply a pleasure. 

World’s Greatest Lover, Pleasance Courtyard, until 24 August, 6pm; main picture: Danny Hidalgo.