Stephen Merchant is arguably one of the funniest writers in Britain but is more often than not referred to as the “lanky chap to Ricky Gervais’ right at award shows”. Now he’s embarked on his debut solo comedy tour Hello Ladies that looks set to change, because to put it simply, Merchant killed at Vicar Street.
“Why did I choose to do this tour?” Merchant rhetorically asked as he took to the stage, “Well one, so I don’t have to share the money with you know who and two, to meet a wife”. Anyone who knows the comedic stylings of the Office and Extras co-writer, co-director and star of the latter will know these are his buzz points. His stinginess (or carefulness with money as he says) and his failure thus far to meet a wife are recurring issues in the old Xfm radio shows and podcast done by himself, Gervais and Karl Pilkington (Idiot Abroad).
Yet Merchant’s comedy has much depth. It’s not like Gervais’ bragging and self promotion, nor is it relentless self loathing. He finds the perfect balance of self mockery aimed at his appearance (his 6’7″ frame and his bulbous astigmatism eyes), his chances with the ladies, his geeky past, his arrogance and his relationship with the press that belittle him.
Merchant had pretty much constant laughter through his set. Dare I say, it was more impresseive than Ricky Gervais’ Science. Even if you’re not a fan of his previous work, chances are you’ll enjoy the comedy stylings of Hello Ladies.
Stephen Merchant had a crack at stand-up back when he was relatively new to the comedy world. However he described his experience as doing a great gig one night, and the following night dying on his arse.
In retrospect this is an excellent welcome back to stand-up comedy to one of Britain’s most underrated comics and going by the ecstatic Vicar Street crowd, a sign of great things to come for Merchant.
Support on the night came from the excellent Ellis James.
Declan Marron
