Funnyman Jon Richardson wows Telford fans

Jon Richardson

It's Not Me It's You

The Place @ Oakengates Theatre

review by Peter Kitchen

With his slightly squeaky voice and nervous disposition, Jon Richardson doesn't appear to take to the stage easily.

The compulsive worrier stresses over the slightest affair - and thinks he's not worrying enough.

From being ripped off by parking fees at multi-story car parks to borderilne Obsessinve Compulsive Disorder routines like stepping on lines on the stage an equal number of times, the Live at the Apollo star is an anxiety attack waiting to happen.

Most comedians would be fearing a long night if a heckler called them weird within 30 seconds of curtain up - but Jon seemed to receive it as a compliment.

Richardson may only be 28 but he already has a lot to grumble about - from the antics and extortionate wages of professional footballers to the lives of people who seem just a little too happy.

He was quick to temper the enthusiasm of audience members who claimed they were always happy - claiming it was a state of being that couldn't possibly exist with all the doom and gloom in the world.

Richardson, who has also appeared on BBC shows Have I Got News For You and Michael McIntyre's Comedy Roadshow, broke with tradition by appearing on stage before support act Mike Ford, before returning later.

After the break proceedings livened up as Richardson returned. He said he imagined people would leave the gigs worrying about him - though as he's already picked up a Best Breakthrough Act award and other nominations, there really is no need for that.