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New Moon is nothing if not an international advertisement for the hungry virtues of virginity and young people can’t get enough of it
The Twilight Saga: New Moon
Theatre
A smart, prickly and rewarding view of sexual and emotional confusion
Cock
Restaurants
Kitchen W8 is a bargain for this area, if such sophistication is what you crave
Kitchen W8
Too long and drawn out but very entertaining with excellent special effects
This is a peculiar play and does not work for me. Some of it is very funny but there are real flaws
Alex has a strong powerful voice and was faultless, she is far better now than she was on the X-Factor
London,
Bruce Dessau's rating
Reader rating
This is clearly the year of the comedy Russells. There is the all-conquering Russell Brand, lunatic newcomer Russell Kane and, in the destined-for-greatness corner, Russell Howard. This gleeful 26-year-old has been around a while and has finally come good. An hour in his company is an unalloyed feel-good joy.
Howard calls his show Wandering, which describes his style, but not his mental energy level. His mind does not stroll, it positively pinballs. One minute he's describing a monk carrying a skateboard, the next he's chatting about doing press-ups in a disabled toilet.
In the past this blond Bristolian has been influenced by Perrier-winning Daniel Kitson, but a more natural reference point now is Ross Noble. Both have similar ways of picking out punters and building fruitful bantering relationships with them. Both also have a penchant for talking about unicorns, tigers and other unlikely comedy topics.
Despite its lightweight appearance, Wandering is anything but throwaway. At a time when comedy is becoming darker than ever, Howard, who clearly lives to giggle, passionately wants to make the world a happier place. And he manages it in spades with a show that will soften the most hardened curmudgeon.
• Until 28 August. Information: 0131 556 6550
Details are correct at the time of publication - please check with venue before booking.
