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Critic's choice: Best comedy shows
By Bruce Dessau, Evening Standard 22.02.07
Lateral thinker: Russell Howard finds jokes where others don't even look
Look here too
Rising star Russell Howard will be in his element live on stage, former poetry boyband member Luke Wright goes it alone and a terrific bill gathers for the Great Ormond Street Benefit gig...
Russell Howard
Soho Theatre, W1
One of comedy's true rising stars, Howard has made a decent impact on TV with his freewheeling riffs on BBC panel game Mock the Week, but the best telly comics are often even better on stage and Howard is no exception. In his bubbly live performance he's in his element, striking up an instant rapport with the audience and finding jokes where others don't even think of looking. (0870 429 6883). Until Sat 24 Feb, 8pm (also at 9.45pm on Fri 23 and Sat 24 Feb).
Jo Brand
Fairfield Halls, Croydon
This is a big week for fundraisers and the everreliable Jo Brand tops the bill at this one for Croydon Mencap and the Garwood Foundation. Her material these days is mostly inspired by motherhood and laziness, two topics clearly dear to her heart. Support comes from the affably neurotic Sue Perkins, sharply satirical soccer fan Kevin Day and Papa CJ. (020 8688 9291). Tonight, 8pm.
Luke Wright
The Pleasance, N7
A couple of years ago the self-styled poetry boyband Aisle 16 made a splash with their snappy stanzas, but, as is the way with boybands, they have now split, blond bombshell Luke Wright going it alone. His entertaining solo show includes a brief history of forgotten poet laureates, plus pieces inspired by everything from Wright's inability to dance to the riots at the Edmonton Ikea. (020 7609 1800) Sat 24 Feb, 7.45pm.
The Penny Dreadfuls
The Pleasance, N7
Could Victoriana be comedy's unlikely next big thing? Well, it could be if the Penny Dreadfuls have their way. This cravat-wearing quartet specialises in an inventive mix of spoof 19th-century sketches, fronted by mythical explorer Aeneas Faversham, who guides you through his exploits. Well observed, clever, and very, very silly. (020 7609 1800). Sun 25 and Mon 26 Feb, 7.45pm.
Great Ormond Street Benefit Jongleurs, SW11
A terrific bill gathers to raise funds for the hospital that treated comedian Jim Tavare's son when he was diagnosed with cancer. The stellar line-up is topped by ITV1 stars Al Murray and Harry Hill and also appearing are Ricky Grover, Phil Nichol, Boothby Graffoe, Dominic Holland, Lee Mack and Paul Tonkinson. Jim Tavare will be doing a turn himself, the Stranglers provide music and incomparable compere Steven K Amos hosts. (0870 787 0707). Sun 25 Feb, 7.30pm.
