Review by Cara Sandys

Young Irish comic Conor O'Toole, is a vegetarian, cycling, student who lives with his grandma. She knits him baggy jumpers and judging from his appearance, one would guess all this to be true. All this might normally have punters running for the door but here 19-year-old Conor wins the audience over.

If he told us he'd been a choirboy in Father Ted we'd believe him. Rosy cheeked and always smiling, he is quirky and endearing, a refreshing change from the cocky comics who cover the usual blokey material. His charm does lie in his naivety, though, so one wonders whether he might lose that once he grows up a bit. Also, would he be as funny if he weren't Irish and looked like he'd be more at home on a farm than a stage?

His show title is appropriate, as this is Apex City Hotel venue is a difficult room to play, with the performer close to the audience.

Also not all of his material worked. It might have been better if he developed stories rather than relying on short gags as it sometimes left him wondering what to say next. But he does have potential and it will be interesting to see where he goes as he matures. He is a very likeable and at the end of his show, rather than hiding behind the curtains, he poked his head out and then offered us all cloves as we left (that's a first!). He wouldn't be everyone's cup of tea, but if you are after some gentle comedy at lunchtime, have a look at this one.

Review date: 14 Aug 2010
Reviewed by: Cara Sandys