Critics’ choice - Jeremy Austin

Who are you?

I was news editor at The Stage for six and a half years, before going freelance two years ago. I continue to write and review for The Stage and I also write for The Times.

What is your favourite type of performance?

Intelligent, challenging, naturalistic writing/performing/directing that taps into the here and now. And anything involving monkeys.

What are you looking forward to the most this year?

Finding that tucked-away production that completely, unexpectedly and gloriously blows my mind.

What are you least looking forward to?

Mornings after nights before at the Balcony Bar in the Gilded Balloon and being caught in the rain with no umbrella again and again.

What is your best piece of advice for visitors?

Bring an umbrella. And a pin to stick in the fringe programme - it’s the only way to choose which production to see.

Jeremy’s top five shows

• Maxwells Fullmooners (Various Underbelly venues). These late night gigs have become legendary. Join host Andrew Maxwell to howl at the moon and see comedians do unusual stuff.
• We are Klang - Dickparty: A Retrospective (Pleasance Courtyard). Quick, grab it. Just a fleeting glimpse of the most innovative, talented and downright silly sketch troupe to grace the fringe for, ooh, years.
• Killer Joe (Pleasance Courtyard). Phil Nichol’s Comedians’ Theatre Company is becoming one of the must-see annual events of the fringe.
• Sean Hughes (Gilded Balloon Teviot). The Robert Smith of comedy makes a welcome return after a lengthy absence to tell a generation how they should be feeling at 40.
• Fuerzabruta (Black Tent). The sell-out show travels from London’s Roundhouse with a little nudity and a lot of water. What more can you want from a show?