Review by Graeme Connelly

Danny Ward stumbles awkwardly and unconfidently on to the stage to a smattering of applause that is as uncertain as he is, before launching into a bit of Latin – not a normal way to start a gig. It soon transpires that few things about Ward are normal.

Managing brilliantly to avoid over-familiar topics, Ward rants passively about dusting, caring for worms, returning things to charity shops and his favourite topic, his bad back. For he has hurt his back many times and battles daily with regular activities. But he makes this hilarious; and at no point does he ask for pity.

Quick-talking Ward is a rambling storyteller with some surprisingly sharp corners. Delightfully clever punchlines follow meandering anecdotes. He endears himself with an engaging if unusual style of language. Wordy but accessibly so, he throws in sneaky puns and well-hidden one-liners that reward the attentive listener without alienating anyone that missed them. It’s clever stuff, and he admits he’s trying to appeal to Guardian readers.

But while he gets some big laughs, they are spread a bit too thin. The little laughs are regular and lovely but are not enough to buoy the whole hour and elevate the show to knockout status.

Review date: 20 Aug 2014
Reviewed by: Graeme Connelly
Reviewed at: Pleasance Courtyard