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ssp at Edinburgh, Josie Long: Trying is Good
A joyful show from a talented rising star
After battling through the elements to get to the Pleasance Courtyard, it was a delight to find Josie Long radiating warmth and silliness on stage. The if.com Newcomer Award winner was bursting with energy and dashing around like a 12-year-old sugar addict. Her delightful wit made it easy to warm to her and Long’s willingness to bare all - including her stomach - quickly ensured a rapport with the rain-dampened but enthusiastic audience.
The show was dedicated to people who make an effort. From bread makers to charity shop workers, all received a gold star for their determination to do some good.
Each story revealed Long’s determination to turn her weaknesses into strengths and her desire to make people smile. This she certainly achieved, particularly with the addition of a hand drawn programme and personal snaps of her holidays.
The pessimists may crave more vulgarity and cynicism from a stand-up comic but that is not Long’s style. She appeals to those who laugh at the idiosyncrasies of life, to the eccentric who likes to see things differently and the romantic who believes we are all good at heart. I for one was wholeheartedly in support of her cause by the end of the show.
Rob Waiting
