Watching this show, I get the impression that the irrepressible Charlie Baker would perform even if no one was there to see it. What we do watch, however, is essentially comedy by numbers; there is nothing off-the-wall, dark, unsavoury or offensive about Baker. From Devon accent to fond recollections of adolescence, this is primetime TV-friendly funny, and there is something comforting in that. He delivers the laughs steadily with inclusive jokes that appeal to a wide range of audiences. A swing-style singing voice and tap dancing only enhance his set’s solid, traditional stand-up tone. Amongst the modern vogue for being increasingly distasteful for laughs, Charlie Baker provides some good, honest fun, and does it well.

Pleasance Courtyard, 1-26 Aug (not 13), 7.15pm.
tw rating 4/5 | [Olivia Sleet]