2010 Edinburgh Fringe
Jeremy Lion review
From a show which starts with a most powerful demonstration of a roar from the dipsomaniac Lion, until the inspirational finale, it is difficult to find anything fallible about Jeremy Lion's educational children's show (not suitable for children).
Jeremy Lion Goes Green is the perfect example of what character comedy is meant to be. Whilst other acts struggle to maintain an alter ego for even part of a show, Justin Edwards stays comfortably (some might say worryingly) within his capabilities as Lion.
Having taken a 5 year hiatus from the Fringe, and seen his personal situation go from bad to tragic, Lion is still the sort of children's entertainer you want as far away from your kids as possible; ruddy faced and ever swigging, Edwards has managed to convey CBeebie's worst nightmare. Seemingly ever enthusiastic, he hasn't given up, and manages to continue even through the drunkest of hazes, aided by 'a very clean man indeed', Hilary Cox. His affability and lack of self awareness means you can't help but pity him, whilst at the same time, pray that he doesn't get the help he should so clearly seek, because who the hell would we laugh at without fear of offense then?
I implore you to see this show - after an hour in this man's company you begin to realise he embodies everything you'll wish the Chuckle Brothers were.
I also can't end this piece without accrediting further bonus points for the most poetic demonstration of deforestation I have witnessed first-hand. Granted, it's the only demonstration I've witnessed firsthand, but still.
Jeremy Lion Goes Green listing