Cam Spence and Jodie Mitchell met at University and their rapport is immediately apparent as they introduce their split-bill Edinburgh show The New Babes at Banshee Labyrinth.
They have a unique energy and chemistry that does indeed feel new, fresh and exciting. Immediately striking an energetic chord with the audience (not easy at 12:10pm), proceedings quickly get underway as Cam introduces Jodie’s half hour of stand-up.
There are plenty of jokes here from this 2017 Funny Women Awards finalist and BBC New Comedy Award Shortlisted comic. Jodie draws us in with tangible reference points. We learn of her displacement within the class system after winning a scholarship to a ‘posh school’ where she described herself as their ‘poverty mascot’ and also her musings on how everything vegan is basically derived from chickpeas.
However, what’s most joyful about Jodie’s material is not just the warmth and precise delivery, but the way she confidently veers off script to engage with the audience with ease. She immediately wins the audience’s trust with a masterclass in how a new comedian’s material should allow us to get to know them.
We stay with her as she brings brilliantly surreal imagery into her work that conjures up relevant and inventive scenes that match the vivid presence we see on stage. A hugely promising half-hour, here’s to much more from this talented comic.
Jodie then warmly introduces Cam Spence, who again, demonstrates an exceptional connection with the audience with a series of surreal, wacky and wickedly brilliant characters. It’s safe to say Cam is one of the most inventive character comics on the circuit.
It was a delight to discover her imaginative and subversive characters, each leaving the audience shaking with laughter. The
politically incorrect and sinister retreat/relaxation guru and the entitled ex-public school stand-up who’s better at terrifying the
audience than making them laugh gives some idea, but no further spoilers here.
These two ‘new babes’ of comedy are fantastically exciting to watch and are the definition of ‘ones to watch’. Catch them in this dreamy midday Edinburgh slot. It will make your day and possibly your fringe festival.
★★★★
Cam Spence and Jodie Mitchell The New Babes is at 12:10 at the Banshee Labyrinth until 25th August. For tickets and more information click here!
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