After a tumultuous few years for the live comedy scene, the return of the Edinburgh Fringe preview show feels like nature healing itself. Being part of the process is always exciting and I anticipated a good night of comedy at this pair of one hour shows hosted by Jericho Comedy. And these works did not disappoint, helping to remind audiences of the energy that comes from stand-up comedy when it can feed off of the audience in the room.

First to take the stage was Chelsea Birkby, an immediately likable presence whose hour pinged around various subjects under the title of ‘No More Mr Nice Chelsea’. She delved into her childhood, opening up about her past mental health diagnosis, whilst retaining a light-heart, self-deprecating quality. Chelsea also brought the audience in on the process of a work-in-progress, commenting on their nature and how they would help shape the show that would end up at the Edinburgh Fringe.

Her hour was occasionally baggy but always endearing, with laughter often reverberating through the venue. Some parts of the routine were further along in the preview process then others but even with the newer material Chelsea’s show crackled with energy and ambition. And the comic’s through-line, of how someone who is seen as a nice person can embrace their edgier side, gave the show an idea that one could easily identify with. For many of us as we grow up we face the predicaments Chelsea explored and what was most admirable was the performer’s willingness to skirt easy laughs and handle more challenging subjects. It may just be April but it felt like we witnessed a potentially big hit when this show reaches its final destination.

A different but equally engaging set took place after a brief intermission, with Lanessa Long this time taking the stage, complete with props, a keyboard and sequins. This is an ambitious work, one that plays with form and style. Long is an electric (and eclectic) stage presence, capable of extended sequences of audience interaction (the ‘volunteer’ who came up to perform a script with Long was one of the highlights of the hour). Songs make up the core of her show, with several improvised from problems offered by the audience. You’re left with the sense that she is an incredibly capable performer who could fill any venue.

Long’s show feels lacking in a theme right now and feels almost bursting with too much material to cover. The climax came suddenly with little build throughout. But when your show starts with a full on stage costume change and ebbs and flows with an infectious energy, it’s just fun to be in the presence of such invigorating talent.

Live stand-up comedy has been sorely missed these past two years (although it has to be said that Jericho Comedy have gallantly traversed the pandemic, with shows online and in open-air settings) and Birkby & Long helped make this a celebratory evening for this particular comedy fan. Brimming with talent, the pair are sure to go far.