Rob Brydon, Symphony Hall - review

Perhaps best known for his appearances on television shows such as Gavin & Stacey, Would I Lie To You and The Trip, the Welsh comedian has had an extended break from the stand up arena however from last night’s show you wouldn’t have known that for a second.

Opening the show was Canterbury’s Mark Simmons, who’s one liner style did well to warm the growing Symphony Hall crowd up.

Taking to the stage in a flurry of energy, Brydon took the crowd on a showcase of comedy, song and tales from throughout his varied career. Some of Brydon’s most popular pieces were performed, including hilarious impressions of various celebrities such as Al Pacino, Mick Jagger and Paul McCartney as well as his famous ‘Small Man Trapped in a Box’ routine. There were also impressions and tales of Brydon’s colleagues Steve Coogan and James Corden, both of which received great applause whilst regaling tales of his time on both The Trip and Gavin & Stacey.

Much of Brydon’s material was based on him passing fifty and the effect this has had on his personality and lifestyle, including the impact a long term marriage has had on his relationship with his partner.

Very much based in audience interaction, the show saw many participants from the audience throughout its running time, including a hilarious routine featuring a local anaesthetist plucked out of the audience to accompany Brydon for a song.

A very warm and welcoming performer, Brydon’s accessibility is shown not only through selling out the vast Symphony Hall but also through the range of ages and walks of life present within the hall.

Although Brydon’s career has taken him onto many different paths, it’s clear that comedy is where he is perhaps his strongest. Let’s just hope we don’t have to wait another eight years for the next tour.

Rob Brydon returns to Symphony Hall on Sunday November 5th.