Original Review:

Show Rating:

A seriously unbalanced alcoholic comedian forever denied a shot at the big time turns to the game show in one last, desperate attempt to break the relentless cycle of misery.

Is it an act, or is it his life?

Vegas milks the self-pity throughout this relatively extravagant show ­ but it's more than luck that it happens to be a very funny experience, too.

Mercilessly attacking his audience, both collectively and individually, the sweatiest man in showbusiness unashamedly announces that this ridiculous quiz will appeal to the basest of instincts ­ greed.

Setting one half of the 'room' (it's actually a big top) against the other, Vegas aims to create a cesspit of hatred in which his barbed comedy will shine. And it does.

Although the audience on this night were not particularly vociferous, Vegas's spontaneous, savage wit, tinged with overplayed pathos, created a uniquely entertaining evening out.

This gem of a show is overlong ­ which will come as no surprise to anyone who has seen this comedian before ­ but nothing a deserved transfer to the tighter medium of TV wouldn't fix.

But then what will become of Johnny's act if he ever does achieve success...?