In 2018, Chris Barltrop followed the lead of the real Philip Astley and took his show to Edinburgh. By special invitation, Audacious Mr Astley returned to Auld Reekie in August 2019.
The Serjeant-Major braved rocky, muddy roads on his long long journey to introduce Scotland to circus entertainment in 1772. In his modern incarnation, Mr Astley took the high roads of the M6 and the M74 to reach the Edinburgh Fringe in good time and comparative comfort.
Thanks to the help of Martin Burton, founder and director of Cirque Berserk! and Zippo's Circus, Audacious Mr Astley was performed at the Pleasance Courtyard through the whole 2018 and 2019 Fringe Festivals.
The show attracted enthusiastic comments and five-star reviews! The respected British Theatre Guide awarded a 5-star accolade and said: '...a fascinating story told in an engaging style...A delightful hour in the company of a fascinating man'.
Professional reviewer Liz Arratoon, aka The Widow Stanton, also gave five stars. She said: ''Entertaining, informative, classy!' And Dea Birkett of @Circus250 (four stars!) praised 'Warmth, knowledge, expertise'.
The Widow Stanton added a special Award: Best Show of the Circus250 Anniversary Celebrations - now, that’s really something!
Mr Astley is up there with the best of 'em - as he's been for the past 250 years!
SEE A 5-MINUTE EXTRACT FROM ‘AUDACIOUS Mr ASTLEY’ AT
Philip Astley, war hero