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Some say satire exists to lay bare the evils and idiocies of the powers-that-be, at least that’s what you’d expect from a ‘topical sketch show’ with ‘treason’ in the title.
However, it’s hard to imagine even the most draconian of despots bothering to dish out a death sentence in response to any of tonight’s jokes – other than in the interests of quality control.
I was wondering who this curious brand of laissez-faire satire might appeal to, when suddenly the cross-hairs switched direction and the otherwise muted audience erupted with laughter for a ‘Miss Whitehawk’ beauty contest.
I’m not sure what’s worse, unreserved class snobbery or third-hand chav gags.
Komedia, 13 February
2/5
Ben Bailey

An unorthodox evening at a new night, billed as including stand-up, sketch comedy and music. With a single sketch, a couple of short monologues and some rather haphazard stand-up, the highlight was a short set from BIMM musical duo Jack and Jake, who conjured up a freshness and energy reminiscent of early Kinks. Performing to the audience rather than to themselves and with a polished professional performance, they brought forth whoops of appreciation. Well worth watching out for. A hit and miss affair of an evening sure to sharpen as it ages.
Cella Bar, 21 February
3/5
Victoria Nangle

With her hotly anticipated debut album First Love recently released, this could be her moment to shine at last. Emmy spoke with the audience between songs as if they knew all the in-band jokes!
The atmosphere was appropriately mellow, the crowd sat on the floor. This was not a set to have a dance to, rather, to appreciate a beautiful voice, and perfectly placed accompaniments with unusual instruments.
Definitely some superb song-writing talent in Emmy, traditional folk style blended with her own pop twist. For me a highlight was an eloquent cover of the Carpenters 70’s hit ‘The End of the World’.
Komedia, 2 February
5/5
Rob Burdick

This cool cabaret show compered by Granny Glitter was helped (or maybe not) by a packed out and rowdy crowd.
Highlights included Glamchop Magoo (a burlesque number by a cute sheep), Piaf-stylee numbers and an arial trapeze performance. It has to be said: less of naughty Nathan with his cheesy balloon tricks and more of the legendary Baby Warhol (a smooth talking puppet and guru who sits in a picture frame, for those not in the know) but hey, variety is what this lot’s all about.
The dark beauty of Voodoo Vaudeville is its formula of bizarre and surreal theatrical treats. Unbeatable.
Komedia, 24 January
3/5
Monica Perdoni