Review by Steve Bennett

Based on their subdued reaction, Glenn Wool's near-catatonic audience didn't need to take the advice explicit in the title of his show.

Not that they had any reason to be so unresponsive, at least at the start when a high-energy Franz Ferdinand-fired introduction injected a spark of vibrant energy. And Wool's material, though never explosive, is reliably enjoyable and deserving a better reaction than it got.

His strength is imagined anecdotes that merge the whimsical with the aggressive: witness his unleashing a randy walrus upon President Bush or his unprovoked attack on the Dalai Llama, the serene pacifist who's had it far too easy from comedians until now.

He gets laughs, or at least titters, through the deft use of language to evoke ridiculous imagery and make his meaningless points

The downside is a propensity to play with the ideas beyond the point of funny, too often testing the patience of his punters by overextending routines. It gives the impression he couldn't quite write the full hour this year, so just dragged the 40 minutes he does have out by 50 per cent.

But there are more than a few smart lines you can take away with you: not least the ultimate put-down to any astrology buff who asks your star sign.

Essentially, you have to be in a relaxed frame of mind to enjoy Wool in the first place, as his sardonic, laid-back conversational approach is not going to convert unbelievers. But if you're seeking an amiable hour-long diversion from life, this'll do the trick at a fraction of the cost of a New Age relaxation counsellor.

Review date: 1 Jan 2004
Reviewed by: Steve Bennett