Words: Berlyn Lee

5 Stars

Upon entering, it’s easy to forget that you’re seeing a Fringe show as it feels a bit more like you’ve wandered into a nightclub! Strobing lights, loud music, and haze fill the room as cast members dance about, ninjas pass out shots of sake, and a man in a chicken suit climbs through the audience offering high-fives.

Not to worry, you haven’t wandered into a nightclub, you’ve bought tickets for one of the most immersive game-show experiences the Edinburgh Fringe Festival can offer: BATSU!

Two hosts introduce four comedians tasked with competing in improv games to recapture the spirit of punishment. If they succeed in winning a challenge, they get a shot of sake. If they fail, they face punishment (or BATSU). Punishments include shots fired from paintball guns, giant rubber band snaps, pirates, dominatrix encounters, and shock collars.

Plan ahead and purchase a Hachimaki, a Karate-Kid style headband, for £10. This gets you two shots of sake and, possibly, audience participation! Participation will earn you a picture with the cast and a medal of honor!

In the end, a champion is named and the spirit is recaptured! All in all, a really fun night! BATSU! is a familiar production on the Fringe roster, but with a rotating cast of performers, you get a different show every night!

BATSU!
Underbelly, Cowgate – Belly Dancer
22:45
Aug 21-24