Lola and Jo: Escape

• Suzanne Black
• 15 August 2019

Another high-concept meta sketch affair from talented duo

Lola Stephenson and Jo Griffin have made a career out of high-concept sketch comedy. In 2017 and 2018 they built shows around the idea of a focus group, playing with the split between performing sketches and commenting upon them. 2019 brings a new frame narrative designed to capitalise on the immersive live experience of the escape room. Lola and Jo (as Leslie and Jackie) guide the audience (who are the escape room contestants) as they search for clues regards the whereabouts of the missing Lola and Jo.

So far, so meta, and also a lot of fun. The sketches themselves offer up gynecologically obsessed posh-lady authors, overly keen roommates, dance teachers, unprepared members of staff giving an internet security presentation and a washing-machine repair video. The location's framework, with its escalating tension between the two performers and playful interaction with escape-room features is expertly crafted. Lola and Jo work so well together to create the impression of both convincing animosity and deep friendship, and their rapport, acting skills and accents cannot be faulted. However, rather than provide a backdrop for their sketches, the frame overshadows them, rendering them the weakest links in this otherwise hilarious endeavour.

Assembly George Square, until 25 Aug, 4.15pm, £10–£11 (£9–£10).