A COLCHESTER comedy troupe which captivates audiences with their Monty Python-esque humour is bringing their latest show to a city festival. 

Since their formation in 2016, The Crunchy Frog Players have captivated audiences with their lively musical numbers, and biting social commentary.

Now, this talented group is returning to the stage with a 55-minute version of their hit show Politics, Religion, Food, and Death at the Fringe Festival on October 28 at 7pm.

The group was founded by councillor Tim Young during his time as mayor of Colchester.

A passionate comedy fan, Tim brought together a team of Colchester’s most beloved and talented figures.

"It all came about because of my love for Monty Python, and I was lucky enough to find a band of people gullible enough to join me,” he jokes.

“We’ve been going strong for years now.”

Among those in the group are Tim's wife, Nicola Goodchild, former mayoress, seasoned actress and official Mary Poppins tribute artist.

“Tim likes to say he’s in charge,” Nicola said. “But really, I’m the boss behind the scenes.”

Known for her sharp eye for detail, Nicola laughs off being called a perfectionist. She said: “I wouldn’t say I’m a perfectionist—just someone who has a great attention to detail.” 

Her contributions to the group extend beyond acting, as she also oversees much of the group’s marketing and creative direction.

Also in the line-up is Anthony Roberts, the force behind the Colchester Arts Centre. While Anthony won’t be performing in October due to prior commitments, he remains an integral part of the group, having penned several of their sketches.

Fan-favorite Darren Gooding, also known as Alice d’Lumiere, will be performing “Young People Today,” a hilarious take on youth stereotypes.

"Nigel Hildreth, my former teacher, now helps me with musical numbers, and I’m thrilled to have him with us," said Darren.

Nigel Hildreth, a gifted musician and former teacher, and notably, the chair of board of trustees at Colchester Arts Centre is also an esteemed member of the troupe. 

His connection to Darren adds to the fun. Darren said: “Nigel used to teach me in school, and now he’s helping me get more musical! We even have some exciting musical numbers lined up for this performance.”

Alongside them is David Hughes, a standout performer whose roles in sketches like The Appraisal and Henry Kissinger have earned him high praise. 

Lisa Wakely, bestselling author of Hexed with impeccable comic timing, rounds out the talented cast, bringing both depth and humour to the performances.

Audiences can expect to see favourites like “The Lady in the Woods,” as well as musical numbers like Tom Lehrer’s “I Hold Your Hand in Mine." 

The Oktoberfest Fringe performance will offer a blend of intelligent humour and social satire, complete with special surprises to keep fans on their toes.

Beyond their comedic talent, The Crunchy Frog Players are deeply rooted in their community. The group has consistently used their performances to support charitable causes, raising £1,500 so far for the Mayor’s chosen charities through their show, with an additional £116 from a bucket collection.

"We’ve been preparing for months and months, and we’re excited to share the laughter with our community," said Nicola.

The Mayor of Colchester, Councillor Lesley Scott-Boutell, praised the troupe, saying: “I appreciate all the hard work they put in to pull the event together. It’s appreciated by me and all our charities."

Although unable to attend their last event, she confirmed, “I’ve made it a priority to make another appearance at the Fringe—and I’m already booked to go!”

As this madcap group of witty, intelligent performers gears up for their next show, one thing is clear: their blend of humour, camaraderie, and community spirit makes them a must-see at this year’s Oktoberfest Fringe Festival.