Russell Howard's ‘Adventures' tour review

By Luke Johnson

To roars of laughter the exciting and enthusiastic comedy styling's of Russell Howard recently graced the stage of Liverpool's Royal Court Theatre.

Performing to a near sell-out audience of around 1,200 as part of his extended ‘Adventures' tour, Russell turned the seemingly ordinary and humourless topics of family and childhood into jokes and anecdotes that caused waves of laughter to circle the venue.

Most recognised for his numerous appearances on the BBC2 show Mock The Week, Bristol born Russell broke on to the comedy scene at just 19-years-of-age when, performing in only his fifth ever gig, he managed to reach the final of Channel 4's So You Think You're Funny? Since then things have only got better for the now 27-year-old. Nominated for a comedy Award at the Edinburgh Festival and a Barry Award in Melbourne, Russell has also appeared on BBC2's Never Mind the Buzzcocks, BBC1's Live at the Apollo and hosts his own Sunday morning radio show on BBC 6 Music.

During his performance in Liverpool, Russell's constantly working and purely comedic mind often drifted from the scripted show as audience participation presented him with new opportunities. When discussing the joy of live comedy Russell said: "I adore that feeling of just seeing where a riff takes you. I find people fascinating, so if someone shouts something out, I don't just put them down and move on." He went on to add: "I don't want to simply hammer out the same show every night. I Love just going with the flow." This skill to create a rapport with the audience that leads to jaw-achingly funny comedy is what distinguishes Russell from many other performers.

His show which looked at the kindness of strangers, Russell's passion for life's simple pleasures and the comparison of good and bad drunken memories had the entire theatre doubled over and at times weeping with laughter. With howls of laughter erupting from the very start and Russell leaving the stage to a vigorous ovation, it was clear to see why his ‘Adventures' tour was extended after a run of 48 sell-out shows.

With his boundless talent and the forthcoming release of his live DVD in November, Russell Howard is a comedian who is deservedly on the fast track to the top. His confidence as a performer, fast comedic mind and his energy and enthusiasm on stage makes him a joy to watch and a name that is going to be around for a long time to come.