’Paul Savage: Hopes Under the Hammer’ (Just the Tonic at The Caves – The Wee One) | Review By Lauren Shaw

‘Hopes Under the Hammer’ is Paul Savage’s stand up show at this year’s Edinburgh Fringe Festival, laughing at the lows that are part of the everyday for renters in Britain.  Playing at Just the Tonic – The Caves this August, this is a must see show for those who can find humour in the dire state of Britain’s housing crisis.

Savage’s sense of humour put into words – the thoughts many of us have had as renters, and our anger at the housing conditions we have lived in.  It is relatable to the average person and provides insight into his life. From living with friends, to the buying, selling and legal battle over a run-down houseboat – the audience are taken on a wild journey through Savage’s own experiences, along with a few side tracks that will leave them in fits of laughter.  

His anecdotes include his experience of dealing with estate agents and/or letting agents (he isn’t quite sure of the difference), flat meetings about the bin schedule and dirty dishes, and the time he lived with his parents before buying a houseboat.  Almost all of them are entirely relatable.

What is most hilarious about his comedy is his ability to adapt his work to his audience, telling the jokes he knows will make them laugh.  He knows what works, and what doesn’t – an essential feature for a fringe performer. Paul Savage’s ability to perform is an objectively fine-tuned talent.

With an intimate audience, Savage remains ever the comedian as he interacts with the audience members, so no matter what show you go to, you are going to get an ephemeral approach.  Armed with a spotify playlist, a microphone and a dry sense of humour, Savage aims to impress, and he did just that on his first show of the month.  He is proof that comedy doesn’t need shock value for laughs.  His stories feel genuine and his love for stand-up (along with Jack Daniels’ advertisements) brings a great energy to his performance. If this preview is anything to go by, Savage will have a very successful run this festival season.

If you love to laugh, ‘Hopes Under the Hammer’ should be in your to-see list.

’Hopes Under the Hammer’ is playing from August 2nd-August 25th (excluding August 12th)