Timing is everything in comedy. Winter is barely over, but the jostling for Edinburgh's summer fringe has already begun. Addy Borgh's potent mix of lunatic voices, character comedy and offbeat observations is marking this quirky oddball out as a name to watch. Catch this showcase before the hype starts. And if you like hanging out in Soho, Edinburgh 2001's sketch hit "Live! Girls!" is at the same venue. Don't just take my word for it - Sir Paul McCartney says they are 'dead funny'.
Addy Borgh , Wed 13 March, Soho Theatre, 21 Dean Street. W1 (020-7478 0100).
JACK DEE
The widgets millstone may have been replaced by the Big Brother millstone, but these days you might catch the deadpan Jack Dee breaking into a smile. Particularly when he looks at the ticket sales for his latest tour, which culminates in a sizeable run at Hammersmith's hangar-like Apollo. Only the best comics can pull it off here - but Dee is certainly up there.
Jack Dee , Sat 9 March-Tues 12 Mar, Apollo Hammersmith, Caroline Street, W6 (0870 6063 400).
JEREMY HARDY
Hardy picked up a Perrier for his cardigan-wearing humour long before fizzy water meant TV riches beyond Frank Skinner's wildest dreams. These days Hardy has put his cosy storytelling behind him to become the funniest left-winger on the block (admittedly, apart from Mark Thomas, competition is thin on the ground). A rare live sighting for that dying breed - the angry stand-up.
Jeremy Hardy , Wed 13-Sat 16 Mar, Cochrane Theatre, Southampton Row, WC2 (020 7242 7040)
