Alyssa Kyria

As far as Fringe comedy experiences go, this is the pits. In fact, the very word “comedy" is utterly misleading, implying at least a glimmer of joy is to be taken away from Alyssa Kyria’s (In)famous For 5 Minutes. Anyone who can do so should really consult a psychologist... or a priest.

Any sketch show whose audience use the costume changes to sneak out can’t be much fun to be a part of. To her credit, Kyria is a reasonable actress and copes with the absence of laughter like a seasoned pro. Unfortunately the material is dire. Each character in her show is woefully predictable to the point of embarrassment, her Greek WAG being the most excruiciating – and not in the good way.

The only moment which comes close to threatening to be almost funny is Kyria’s vibrator dance, which is hardly comedy at the cutting edge.

This is the very antithesis of good comedy and would be utterly hateful were it not for the fact that Kyria and co-“star” Laura Glover appear to be trying hard, which is difficult not to empathise with. However, even this is horrible: leaving you feeling thoroughly embarrassed on their behalf. I left wanting to cry – and that’s without having paid. Avoid at all costs.