Humdinger Words for Lollygaggers & Fuddy-Duddies is an immersive comedy-cabaret-poetry extravaganza, blending sharp wordplay, visual gags, rhyming magic and mind-boggling trivia into an unmissable hour of laughs, learning and utter mayhem lurking around every corner.

Performed by neurospicy Renaissance man, Ben Dali, the show draws on a life spanning many careers, from gameshow host via stage hypnotist to primary teacher. Expect pieces to shift rapidly between styles and moods without warning, often from infectious sincerity to unapologetic filth.

At its heart, the show is a joyous celebration of language in all its forms. Highlights include a journey through the finest ‘Humdinger Words’ that English has to offer; innocent childhood poems juxtaposed with depraved adult sequels; and a visual comedy treat comparing country outlines to their outlandish doppelgängers. Along the way, Dali relives his diverse skillset, including genuine hypnotic effects and mentalism delivered in improvised rhyme.

Designed for attentive, intellectually curious audiences who celebrate playful language, Humdinger Words for Lollygaggers & Fuddy-Duddies is ideal for festivalgoers who enjoy comedy that subverts genre and expectations, rewards curiosity and delivers knockout punchlines in every bout.

‘Dali has a good sense of humour and immediately connects with his audience...presents his show with an unbounding professionalism and confidence...A great show.
- Broadway Baby (for Edinburgh hypnosis show: Strictly Come Trancing)

"An intelligent & warm-peforming gentleman, one expects that... Dali shall be as famous as his artistic namesake."
- Mumble Cirque (for Edinburgh hypnosis show: Trance of a Lifetime)