Meet the man uncovering Saddleworth's giants and boggarts

Hudson Hughes has emerged as the man responsible for bringing Saddleworth's own unique blend of gothic comedy and horror to the Edinburgh Fringe. In his Fringe debut, Hughes takes on the role of Reverend Derek Gritt, a celebrity vicar who finds himself back in the rustic parish of Godsby-upon-Treen for the funeral of his admirer, Jane Plemley. The show, which shares similar sensibilities to The League of Gentlemen, offers a tribute to the genre while incorporating some delightful jokes.

What sets At Your Service apart is its impressive execution. From props to videos, visual effects, songs, and even animatronics, the show offers a sense of scale that is uncommon in a Fringe show. Despite a key robotic puppet malfunctioning during a performance, there remains ample enjoyment to be had. Hughes's performance, in particular, stands out for its larger-than-life presence, despite the limited space.

The character of Reverend Gritt is portrayed as a vain, hubristic, and amoral figure, convinced that he holds a lifetime position as the Church's Bishop of the Internet, despite a website design reminiscent of 1995's Geocities.

The narrative complexity of At Your Service keeps viewers engaged even after deciphering the true nature of Jane Plemley and Gritt's own moral ambiguity. Hughes's performance effectively balances the melodrama with humor, ensuring that the show's over-the-top storytelling remains a delight. The effort Hughes has put into creating this character and bringing it to life has paid off remarkably well, resulting in a highly commendable performance.