by ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Me like show very much.
Monkey Barrel’s two rooms at The Hive are far from the only converted bomb shelters you’ll find Fringe shows in across Edinburgh each August. But The Hive, normally a bustling dance club, just might bear the most distinguishable stench still lingering in the air from its naughtier night-life, which often puts the comedy shows here at a distinct disadvantage. And yet over recent years, I’ve seen quite a few shows succeed in spite of it; among them, Phil Ellis and Krystal Evans. This year’s Hive standout is Bella Hull.
This marks Hull’s third critically-acclaimed Fringe run, following Babycakes in 2022 and Piggie last year.
“I’m hoping for Hive 1 next year.” Here’s hoping she leaves The Hive for Monkey Barrel 1 or 3! Her gag rate definitely trounces whichever TV comic she’s referencing. If she has a fault, it’s that clever boys are her type even if they and their families aren’t right or good for her. Their loss. And hers if she lets them keep her from the stardom she deserves.
Bella Hull “Doctors Hate Her” plays Monkey Barrel through Aug. 24, 2025.
