Stuart Thomas: Bad Fatty (Work In Progress)

Brighton Fringe is back, and with it comes a packed schedule of work-in-progress shows. One that caught my eye for the upcoming week is Stuart Thomas: Bad Fatty. It is a stand-up set that leans into his personal experiences, specifically focusing on life as a fat man. Rather than sticking to the usual tropes where the larger character is just the butt of the joke or the moral lesson, Thomas is aiming to flip that narrative. He covers a fair bit of ground, touching on topics like fatphobia, his own take on bisexual joy, and, oddly enough, his appreciation for Premier Inn hotels.

If you are planning to head down, the show is happening at Laughing Horse @ The Walrus (Hideaway). It is scheduled for three dates early in the festival: May 1st at 20:15, and then two afternoon slots on May 2nd and May 3rd, both at 14:00. It is worth noting that this is a work-in-progress, so the show is still in development, which often gives these performances a slightly more raw, experimental feel compared to a polished tour show. The format is 'Pay What You Want', with prices starting from £5, making it an accessible option if you are looking to catch some comedy without a heavy upfront cost.

Just a heads-up on the logistics: the venue has an 18+ age restriction, and they do not allow children under two years old, following a strict 'Babes in Arms' policy. The show itself involves audience interaction and contains strong language, so keep that in mind when booking. It sounds like a fairly direct, honest look at his perspective, and if you enjoy comedy that challenges standard stereotypes while keeping things fast-paced, this might be one to consider adding to your Fringe calendar.