If you’re going to see a man who’s been in eight Royal Variety Performances, there’s a good chance you’ve an idea what’s coming.
His Alive and Dangerous tour, which dropped in at the Playhouse last night, is something of a microcosm of what must be the world as Brian Conley sees it.
Now arguably better known for his all-singing, all-dancing career in the West End musicals, he splits the show between a smattering of comedy and some well-known songs.
The rather pedestrian first half also sees a support act Mat Ricardo, who may have been new to this audience but is well-known from TV chat shows and exposure elsewhere. Not quite sure if he’s an illusionist, visual artist or comic, his slick, fast moves make him a dab hand at variety although it’s clear the audience want to get back to their hero Conley, who appears sparingly in those first 45 minutes.
Even Brian Conley comes over as a little self-indulgent before the break, rattling through well-known hits from his musical performances which include Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Hairspray, Oliver!, Jolson and Me and My Girl. Not quite a medley but not quite enough of each to make it a proper concert.
Back for part two and the fast-talking, wise-cracking television comedian has the crowd in stitches.
Especially when he chats to Wendy in the fourth row – who came along at the last minute when a friend dropped out through illness, genuinely believing she was coming to see Billy Connolly.
This is the genre where the performer seems most at ease, despite his pitch perfect crooning earlier on.
A very visual comic, he’s also rather rude (both in what he says and what he does) and everyone just loved him, possibly because he’s such a cheeky chappie. Some of his gags are probably past their sell-by date but with him delivering them they’re still great fun.
Add fire eating, community singing, an audience member or two up on stage and some unspeakable naughtiness and you have the recipe for a great night out.
Oh – and don’t forget “It’s a PUPPET!”
