In 2004, Mark Watson performed the first-ever solo 24 hour show at the Edinburgh Fringe. Since then, Watson's marathon shows - lasting 24, 33, and on one occasion 36 hours - have become Edinburgh's most celebrated tradition, winning four awards including the 2006 Panel Prize, and establishing Watson as 'the Fringe's great innovator' (The List, UK), 'the highest achiever Edinburgh has seen in the past decade' (The Times, UK), and 'a kind of unstoppably funny superhero' (The Sunday Times, UK). There was similar furore when the phenomenon transferred to Melbourne for the first time in 2007.

Here's a little summary of what people have said about this curious tradition:

2004: 'A cultural landmark, like Woodstock; a seminal moment in Fringe history, through which Watson guided his audience with sublime talent and glorious wit' (The Scotsman)

2005: 'One of the greatest things I've ever seen' (Adam Hills)

2006: 'Unmissable, unforgettable magic: a genuinely uplifting tribute to the power of collaboration' (Chortle)

2007: 'The undoubted highlight of this year's festival' (Beat)

If there were any justice, Mark Watson would now be in overall command of the world.

But he isn't. And this is the injustice he will seek to address in 2008's marathon show.