Mark Thomas: 40 in Stand-Up Years ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Darkchat David and Anne first saw Mark Thomas at an excellent Best of the Fest in 1992, along with Jo Brand, Bruce Morton, John Thomson and Steve Coogan and John Shuttleworth. A vintage year indeed.

It certainly doesn't feel like 34 years ago and this talented comedian has certainly not mellowed with age, nor is he about to run short of material, as the world seems to be in a sorry state at present.

There were plenty of well crafted observations on the state of the nation but for us the highlight was Mark Thomas' revelation that for several years he and his sister have been carers for their mum who is now in her 90s. We are a similar age to the Thomas siblings and this is an experience we have in common. The material is very funny - from finding festering food in a parent's fridge, to being subjected to the torture of daytime TV. Apparently Mrs Thomas claims she should be getting a percentage of her son's earnings, as she is a source of much of his current material and it is evident that they share a sense of humour and a great affection too.

An excellent way to spend an hour, in a venue that is something of an Edinburgh institution which supports live comedy all year, not just during the Festival, however, I feel I should highlight the fact that the venue has limited seating, so do arrive early, if (like us) standing for a show in a warm venue is more of a challenge than it was in 1992.