The role of a best man is pretty simple when you break it down – plan a cracking stag do and
right a really funny, embarrassing speech for the groom. This speech was funny and
embarrassing, but for all the wrong reasons and for the wrong person.
Best Man by Colman Hayes and Mikey Fleming hits this year’s fringe at Underbelly George
Square with their hilariously funny show showcasing the not so subtle breakdown of a single
best man at his best friend’s wedding. Cathal is about to give his speech when he realises
he misplaced the paper, so he decides to freestyle the speech. In amongst his attempt at
comedy and thinking of funny anecdotes to tell the family, he slowly begins to break down
his own romantic failures, bringing every story back to himself and as the story continues,
telling some stories that the groom may have wanted kept a secret.
Set on the stage of the wedding reception, the tight room lended massively to the story and
the crippling, awkward tension pumping through the atmosphere. The audience played the
role of the wedding party, split into the groom’s side and the bride’s side. Upon entry you
were asked by Fleming whose side were you with which was a perfect little touch to the play.
The piece was filled with such minor attention to detail which created the atmosphere from
the offset, laying out the vibe they wanted from the start. The audience then became family
members that Hayes picked on which was very good and full credit to the audience
members involved as everyone was in the mood to participate and even hit some funny lines
themselves.
The writing was very good from Fleming and Hayes. However, I do feel as though some of
the jokes or comedic pauses never landed – not in any detriment to Hayes – this could be just
the audience not picking up some of the timings, although it did lead to some lulls during the
monologue.
Hayes’ performance was quick, punchy and excellent throughout the hour piece. His
improvisation with the audience members led to some great moments and his character arc
was prominent and made for great entertainment. With a simplistic set and small, intimate
setting, Hayes had to do the majority of the work and he definitely nailed it.
In conclusion, Best Man is a very easy going, laugh filled show that will bring a smile to your
face whilst leaving you with second hand cringe for the downfall of John’s best friend.
Best Man is being performed from August 10th-13th & 15th-27th at Underbelly George
Square – The Wee Coo @ 2:50pm. Get your tickets here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/best-
man#:~:text=Cathal%20is%2030%2C%20flirty%2C%20and,wedding%20watching%20it%20
Theatre Scotland 
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