With his affable, informal and relaxed approach to this show, Mick Ferry treats his audience like a group of mates in the pub, generating interest and apathy in equal measure. Ferry’s casual manner  dictated a style lacking in sharp punchlines or witty one-liners but, fortunately, he is blessed with some genuine comic talent. With this comedic skill, and his personable delivery, Ferry kept the audience’s attention throughout, as he rambled through conventional subjects like family values, racism and growing up. Creating an atmosphere reminiscent of an evening at the local, Ferry offered a couple of pints worth of comedy, but kept us sober enough that nobody left early with a hangover.

Gilded Balloon Teviot, until 25 Aug (not 12), 6.15pm.
tw rating 3/5 | [Robert McGowan Stuart]