The more chaotic proceedings became, the greater the comedic value, in what Rosie Holt was only too happy to describe as a “silly show”. And with the world as ridiculous as it is, why not crank up the silliness to the max? Holt, for the uninitiated, is known for her political satire. Some of her social media content has been so convincing that some people have misunderstood it, believing her to be an actual sitting Member of Parliament (she has not, to the best of my knowledge, even actually been a Prospective Parliamentary Candidate).
Substitute the word ‘aliens’ for ‘immigrants’ in the show’s title, and it’s easy to see the direction of travel as the major political parties are all parodied, quite gloriously, as well as broadcasters as such BBC Question Time’s Fiona Bruce. A number of scenes, interestingly, consider what public opinion might be to the show itself, and there are also some sharp comebacks at some previous negative reviews Holt has received.
Elements of audience participation worked well, inasmuch as the unpredictability of what people might, and indeed did, do was deftly handled. The inclusion of a TikTok influencer amongst the many characters portrayed was an inspired choice, and aligns well with the increased use of public money on social media content by the latest Prime Minister. When it comes to most political comedy sketch shows, I wonder if just staying at home and watching television news would be just as entertaining. But this is a satirical journey worth taking.
Review by Chris Omaweng
As debates around immigration policy and political image-making continue to dominate headlines, an even greater threat emerges when UFOs arrive. Will the Government respond with urgency, or continue insisting it is simply ‘waiting for the facts’ as extraterrestrials begin abducting and eating the British public? Blending political satire with science fiction absurdity, Rosie Holt pushes familiar political responses to their most extreme conclusions.
Impatient Productions in association with Sophie Chapman Talent presents
ROSIE HOLT: THE ILLEGAL ALIENS HAVE LANDED!
Pleasance Courtyard at the Edinburgh Fringe, 5 to 30 August 2026
Tour from 8 October 2026 to 5 March 2027
