As a piece of historical investigation this show is certainly appealing as it gives a new dimension to a man, largely only known by name. Original footage from Kennedy’s assassination and 1960s America suggest that this company have really done their homework. Despite its billing as a musical, this piece’s focus on one character gives it greater depth.

Unfortunately, the humour which is pledged rarely appears and the songs occasionally seem to be at odds with the subject matter (though their hillybilly style is in keeping with Oswald’s Texan roots). This is by no means a heavy piece: it is light-hearted entertainment, but the hysterical tagline with which it is advertised is an exaggeration. Perhaps this is no bad thing as this show functions perfectly well without the comedy, and again perhaps with a few of the slightly incongruous musical numbers eradicated.

Dodgy American accents aside this show should appeal to fans of conspiracy theory and modern history, as well as those who are keen to see an alternative perspective on the American Dream. What makes it work is the unusual topic under the spotlight which cannot be accused of unoriginality, and so distinguishes this production from other musical offerings on the Fringe.

Who: LHO: Lee Harvey Oswald – The Musical
Where: C Electric
When: 15:00-16:20; 4th – 29th August (except 14th)

I challenge anyone going to see the Ladyboys of Bangkok not to spend the first half an hour wondering what the hell it is they are doing. It takes a while to get used to: a strange mix of cruise boat and school dance show entertainment, performed by men, the majority of who can only be described as stunning. This is the purpose: to dazzle, if not through glitz and glamour, then through a suspension of disbelief that these men do indeed possess the necessary male chromosome.

There is no questioning, however, that this is a real crowd pleasing show. Men from the audience are persuaded, hardly kicking or screaming, to join in with the fun, whilst female viewers happily provide the dance routine to the Village People’s YMCA. This is where the show’s success comes from, as the more the audience give, the more the performers seem to respond.

Releasing my inhibitions, although thankfully not enough to leap on stage, even I found myself clapping along. The Ladyboys certainly show the extent of what is available during an Edinburgh August. This is bold, brassy, unabashed entertainment at its best and is sure to keep audiences cheering for more, however, strange that may seem.

Who: Urban Circus Ltd: Ladyboys of Bangkok
Where: Meadows Theatre Big Tops
When: 19:00-20:40 & 21:15-22:55; 5th August – 3rd September

Until I got to University. Every pub call on the first night of Fresher’s Week lead to a mystery thing called a Ceilidh. Which sounded okay, if a little weird. And after about thirty seconds, I realised that I knew all these dances. Intimately. And I could lead any other fresher around a Dashing White Sergeant. Intimately…

Nowadays though, there are much more gentle ways to introduce the young (and young at heart) to the joys of Ceilidh’ing, and this afternoon Children’s show at The Bongo Club is one of those ways. While it’s labelled for three and up, it’s a great introduction for any age.

The key to any good Ceilidh is to have a good band, and a caller who can relate to the audience. Opening up with a traditional Gay Gordon’s, which has three major “parts” for the dancers, all the children in the hall (including my three year old!) were flying around the floor as if they had been doing it for years. Moving on to Circadian Circles and a Virginia Reel, which have a bit more complexitiy, was pain free and very plesant. Mix in a few traditional Scottish Children’s singalong songs, and you have a great afternoon out. As I said, I think that it’s just as suitable for adults who want to have a go in a very realxed, gentle atmosphere.