Review: Potty the Plant

Rating: 5 out of 5.

Gilded Balloon at Appleton Tower | 5–25 August 2025 | 14:45 PM
🎟️ Tickets from £11.50
“Outrageous, wacky, and lovable – a Fringe favourite that keeps getting better.”


✨ Introduction

After premiering at the Edinburgh Fringe in 2023, Potty the Plant returns for its third run—and it’s bigger, bolder, and even more bizarre. This adult dark comedy musical has grown into a cult hit, and it’s easy to see why. With a singing, tap-dancing potted plant at its centre, the show blends outrageous humour, catchy songs, and unexpected heart into a theatrical experience like no other.

This year’s production brings new cast members, fresh jokes, updated costumes, and even a new solo number for Potty himself—proving that this plant is still blooming with surprises.


🌿 The Story So Far

Set in the chaotic halls of Little Boo-Boos General Hospital, the story follows Potty, a seemingly adorable houseplant with a twisted streak, and a trio of well-meaning but hilariously inept nurses. Together, they attempt to solve the mystery of the missing children—though not without a few musical detours and darkly comic twists along the way.

Returning audiences will notice the show has evolved since its debut. While the core remains the same—twisted humour, infectious energy, and toe-tapping tunes—this year’s version adds new emotional layers and character development, particularly for Potty.


🎤 Performance Highlights

Baden Burns once again brings Potty to life with impeccable comedic timing and puppeteering skill. His new solo number, a heartfelt ballad expressing Potty’s longing for Miss Lacey, adds unexpected depth to the character and reframes his motives in a surprisingly touching way.

Lucy Appleton takes over the role of Miss Lacey and absolutely shines. Her rendition of “Unhappy” is a vocal standout—emotive, powerful, and beautifully delivered. She’s a joy to watch, bringing warmth and strength to the role.

The trio of nurses—Joe Winter as Nurse DaveStephanie Cubello returning as Nurse Mel, and Sam Ridley as Nurse Stephen—are a comedic powerhouse. Their chemistry is electric, and their scenes together are packed with energy, chaos, and perfectly timed gags.

Ash K-B as Dr. Acula deserves special mention. When faced with technical hiccups, he handled them with such smooth improvisation and wit that it felt like part of the script. His professionalism and showmanship were a highlight in themselves.


🎶 Music & Atmosphere

The musical score, composed by Baden Burns, is as catchy and clever as ever. From upbeat ensemble numbers to darkly comic solos, the songs are packed with memorable melodies and wickedly funny lyrics. The new additions this year—especially Potty’s solo—add emotional resonance without losing the show’s signature silliness.

The atmosphere is electric, with the audience laughing, gasping, and tapping along from start to finish. The show’s ability to balance absurdity with genuine heart is what makes it so special.


💃 Staging & Style

The staging is compact but inventive, making excellent use of props, puppetry, and lighting to bring Potty’s world to life. New costumes and visual gags keep the show feeling fresh, while the choreography—especially the tap-dancing sequences—adds a layer of theatrical flair that’s both ridiculous and delightful.


🪴 A Look Back: Last Year’s Review

In 2024, Potty the Plant earned a glowing ★★★★★ review:

“Potty the Plant is an outrageous, wacky, and lovable production.”

“Audiences were treated to a spectacular performance featuring catchy, upbeat songs with dark and hilarious lyrics, silly and infectious dance routines, a talented cast, and an adorable puppet.”

“Baden Jack Burns and Sarah Oakland (as Nurse Lacey) exhibited charming and lovable chemistry on stage. Sarah’s stunning vocals particularly shone in the song ‘Unhappy,’ while Baden’s comedic timing and showmanship were an absolute delight to watch.”

This year’s production builds on that success, with new cast members stepping into their roles seamlessly and the show continuing to evolve without losing its original charm.


🎉 Final Thoughts

Potty the Plant is a Fringe phenomenon that just keeps getting better. It’s laugh-out-loud funny, wildly inventive, and surprisingly heartfelt. With a stellar cast, a sharp script, and a score that sticks in your head for days, this show is a must-see for fans of dark comedy, musical theatre, and puppetry with a twist.

Whether you’re a returning fan or a first-time viewer, Potty’s world is one you won’t soon forget. It’s outrageous, wacky, and—above all—lovable.

written by Suzzi Hirst

@suzzisspotlight

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