Ed Gamble: Stampede at Gilded Balloon at the Counting House

As the audience files into the domed chamber of the Counting House’s main room, Ed Gamble patrols the stage and aisle engaging on a personal level with those about to enjoy Stampede, the show that marks the fresh-faced English stand-up’s third solo Edinburgh Festival run. Gamble exudes the type of relaxed and chirpy likeability that has hastened his rise through the ranks of the UK comedy scene of late complimenting punters on their outfits, arranging rounds of applause for latecomers, and generally making friends.

Despite that ascension translating to his recent appearances on the topical TV panel show circuit, Gamble’s stock and trade is charmingly self-deprecating personal analysis and exploration of the inherent confusion and contradiction he encounters within his own psyche. The most apparent through-line of this one-hour set stems from his bewilderment at the trend for using cauliflower in place of various supposedly unhealthy foods, and it gains authenticity when, halfway through the show, he sheepishly admits to having tried such recipes himself. Diet is an overarching theme, with a wealth of wry observations from both ends of the obesity graph (Gamble considers himself to be an “undercover fat person” after having shed 6st in weight).

While it may lack laughs of the size and force to linger in the memory – or indeed a focussed concept that might elevate it toward the realms of theatrical artistry – Ed Gamble’s fast-paced delivery and universally relatable material make an afternoon in his company well worthwhile all the same.

Stuart Boyland

Ed Gamble: Stampede is on at Gilded Balloon at the Counting House from 3^rd August until 29^th August 2016, for further information or to book visit here.

Watch Ed Gamble discuss the side effects of losing weight here: