Review by Toby Hadoke
An excellent opening, not only fresh and funny, but did what an opening act should in getting the crowd well settled in for a top comedy evening. I was mightily impressed - no more open spots for Mr Bowman.
Ben, as comedy character Stephen Challis was superb. I would have loved for him to have had a bigger crowd and better atmosphere. This act really tickles me, and it is a unique and witty approach to character comedy. I tip this fella for big things.
I thought he did a fabulous job. It was great to see him freeing himself up by going off script (which he didn't really do last time). A fine performer who judged the crowd perfectly, and knew where to take a random occurrence and turn it into comedy gold.
I love Noel's stuff and he was excellent - but I found that audiences are reacting to him much differently than in the past. They used to fall of their chairs and be carried away by his silliness. Now I witness the odd groan or uncertain pause from them. I don't think Noel has changed - he was as brilliantly unconventional and inventive as ever - but maybe audiences have. If so, that's a shame. Not to say he didn't do well - but I'm used to him doing phenomenally.
The drunk table towards the end didn't help matters, and the atmosphere wasn't quite what it can be, but on the whole, a fun night. And at any other club - a brilliant night. We're just spoilt.
Toby.
