Sam Morrison kicked off his fourth solo performance at the Edinburgh Fringe with his uniquely titled show DUCK. Sam is an acclaimed Edinburgh Fringe American comedian who featured on Late Night with Seth Meyers Comedy Central. He is the Named Just for Laughs New Face and his show “Sugar Daddy presented by Billy Porter and Alan Cummings, extended its run off Broadway four times and transferred to off West End in London”.
DUCK the feathered winged and web feet variety have unusual spiral vaginas and given that their main purpose biologically is to survive, reproduce and pass on their genes. It seems a perfect comedic launchpad to explore the evolutionary science of reproductive practice of other animal species, including humans. DUCKis based around weird animal facts and Sam’s personal experiences; he does not hold back. He questions and searches for answers through reflecting on his emotional responses to childhood, gay encounters and relationships with older men; alongside his therapy and grief.
At first, you wonder where these quick firing jokes are taking you. The content is provocative and explicit and will not suit all people. With references of a sexual and religious nature, Hyenas with oversized clitoris’s, Octopus penises. He questions the masculine stereotypes of muscularity and physique, who is this intended for. He takes the subject of being gay into a farcical and thought-provoking direction, questioning the role of homosexuality in the context of evolution and reproduction. Sam’s transgressive approach is very funny, weirdly educational as the jokes come with ease. His comparisons “Jesus is a DUCK; he walks on water”.
What is most striking about Sam and his performance is not the sassy, overt gayness, but his ability to sensitively and beautifully tell a story that evokes genuine emotion between the punchlines. It is extraordinary to see this level of vulnerability and storytelling in a comedian. His natural charisma and captivating presence will leave you wanting to see him again.
Written and performed by Sam Morrison
This comedy show commences at 17.30pm duration1hour no Interval
Fringe Run 5th _ 31st August 2026 Venue Billard Room at Gilded Balloon Teviot
Booking Link: https://gildedballoon.co.uk/venues/gilded-balloon-teviot/
Reviewer: Michelle Knight
Review Date 27th August 2026
North West End UK and Theatre Muse UK Rating 4
