by ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Daran “Jonno” Johnson is no stranger to the Fringe as one-third of the sketch trio Sheeps.
But it’s kind of a big deal for Jonno to go solo this year. Not just because he tells us he hasn’t done a solo show, and especially not as a stand-up, in many years; but also because he’s the head writer for SNL UK. (Season 2’s premiere date was just announced for the first six episodes to begin rolling out live on Sky on Sept. 12, and Sept. 13 on Peacock).
So what do we have here? What he hear here are plenty of songs that would make for surreal SNL sketches should he ever want to adapt them. I can see the Office Christmas Party now. You can hear his alternate theme songs for the James Bond films and delight in them.
He also uses a “stool of sincerity” to let us know when he has something more serious to say (which should be a giveaway for anyone who falls for his seemingly serious gags he says while standing), and despite his newfound leveling up in show business, he still finds himself feeling anxiety about auditions and rejections. Only now he also gets to feel anxious about having to reject people who want a seat at the big table with him.
Also, Jonno and I have way too much in common, but I am neither adding nor deducting any stars for that reason.
Jonno: Here Comes Mr Funny plays Monkey Barrel 2 during the 2026 Edinburgh Fringe.
