For the uninitiated, Tom
Stade’s standup comedy shows would make Roy Chubby Brown look like a Sunday
school teacher; not for the easily offended, or for the difficultly offended
for that matter. That has all changed however, and tonight we witnessed Tom’s
reinvention as an all round family entertainer with not a single rude word or
filthy comment passing his lips.
I’m joking of course, he
hasn’t toned down or compromised his act one bit and demonstrated an ability to
weave a narrative together not seen since Billy Connelly’s heyday.
Fellow Canadian Nigel Lawrence
got the audience on side straight away with observations on food in Scotland,
flying, and pets behaviour and didn’t hit a single duff note. The job of a warm
up act is to literally warm up the crowd, and he fulfilled that role with ease.
Tom Stade hit the stage with
such force it’ll probably still feel it this morning, and launched effing and
giggling like a stoned teenager headlong into a mind blowing routine about
Boots and their crazy three for two deals and loyalty card scheme.
This year’s show is called
Decisions Decisions, it looks at the fact that there are basically two age
groups – young and old, and deciding which one you want to be. Parenthood gets
a good natured kicking, as those in the audience with children are basically
told they are wasting their time investing in someone who doesn’t appreciate
it. As usual Tom found a rapport with a couple in the front row, Dale and Zoe,
with whom he was able to keep soliciting opinions and back referencing.
When comedians spout outlandish
ideas it tends to contain some element of truth designed to make you think, and
Tom’s delivery makes him one of the best. Zoe will probably insist on back row
seats next time though.
Originally written for the Nottingham Post.
