There seems to be a gaggle of “communication enthusiasts” who have burst onto a Fringe stage with a whole lot to say and a lot worth listening to. This collective of storytellers, poets, public speakers and improv artists spend 90 minutes showcasing the way we communicate, feel and learn from each other’s experiences, regardless of whether the story is more truth or dare. The Art of Tongue is far from a raunchy exploration of how to use our mouthy muscles – although some of the language and humour doesn’t always make for a family-friendly show during the improvs. Tongues will be wagging though, as the tongue-lashing we receive is very funny. There are a lot of laughs throughout, with this bunch of amateur performers knowing how to give you a good time. Where the show struggles is in the storytelling itself. The night intertwines the ample improv humour with more serious personal monologues but, while there is truth in the orations, there is almost none in their telling. Dramatic pauses, exaggerated hand gestures and clutching-at-breasts turn their stories and emotions into a parody of themselves, and an uncomfortable one at that since these are not trained actors. The poetry readings fair no better. Only one story had impact – that from a former soldier paying tribute to his mate who tragically died in an accident sometime after the war was over. It’s told with heart and truth, and we are overwhelmed by the sadness and warmth of his ode. Of the improvs, it’s hard to pick a winner although their take on the BBC’s Mock of the Week is one of the highlights. Afiatta Wills and Jason Donnellan host the evening with wonderfully cheesy rapport that keeps the evening flowing at a good pace. As they build more confidence in this role, they’re really going to shine! The Art of Tongue should please almost everyone with its pace, humour and welcoming casualness. They can only keep on getting better.