The Unlikely Lad

At the 2011 Leicester Comedy Festival

More Andrew Bird videos

Andrew Bird: Fringe 2012
Live Review
Gilded Balloon Teviot

In a show that plays wry tribute to village life Andrew Bird is definitely a lovely guy you’d be happy to have next door.  Smiley, affable, as full of observation as a neighbourhood watchman, an hour of time shared is pleasant enough.

If last year’s show was about one village, this year the intention is to expand the sample and compare many villages for traditions, oddness, custom and character.  Such is Bird’s skill with a crowd he quickly had people chipping in about their area and he polished everyone’s contribution to reflect them in a good light.

 His style is inclusive and throughout he worked hard and gained laughter of recognition through shared experience.   At one point he stated ‘I’m not a go-getter’ – a by-product of village life inhibiting ambition, but he cunningly makes a virtue of non-achievement: not doing a world tour of villages for an Edinburgh show is obviously far more sensible than actually doing it, when the net result is still an hour of light and amusing chat.

But he hasn’t stretched himself too hard with the material either, there were some references which are a bit tired, but offered with such goodwill and warmth you’re inclined to forgive him.  It’s simple stuff, there were consistent laughs, Everyday Value rather than Finest, but worth every one of three stars.

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Saw Andrew at a small venue in Englefield Green and he thouroughly deserved his headline billing. Very professional, slick act and perfect timing. Very funny and dealt brilliantly with the heckler who insisted he was immune from any comeback as he was in the second row and not front row fodder

Jim Laney, January 2012

Absolutely brilliant at Banana Cabaret at the weekend. Perfect timing, crisp delivery and spot-on observations. Seen him a few times and he is consistently funny.

Paul, October 2009

Saw this guy a couple of days ago and loved him. He didn't go wrong once, had the whole audience in hysterics and came on after two bad acts in a row. I'd definitely see him again.

Ash, October 2009

We saw Andrew at Just the Tonic - Leicester Sq last night. Had me crying, my cheeks have not hurt that hard from laughing for ages. Amazing by far the best of the night.

Anna, August 2009

He is rubbish and cannot deal with hecklers. He takes it all personally...

Iain, May 2009

Not bad...

Absinth Man, August 2008

Takes the toughest job on Earth and makes it look criminally easy. Laid-back patter, wide range of targets, high gag-count... One of my favourite acts on the circuit.

Michael Monkhouse, April 2008

I saw Andrew at the Bearcat last night and thought he was great. Loved his observations on digital cameras. See him if you can.

Helene, November 2006

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