I, like the rest of the nation, was impressed by his positive mindset and dancing skills throughout the series which was why I jumped at the chance to see him shine on another slightly different stage at the Leadmill delivering his stand-up show Yonks!. The show was sold out with the crowd appearing to be mostly between the ages of 25-50 years old.
The night began with McCausland’s supporting act, a stand up and musical comedian called Jon Long. Long came on stage with a guitar around his neck and really knew how to control and work the crowd with frequent interactions between himself and the audience. I have never seen a ‘musical comedian’ before but it was a great concept. He created songs to do with anecdotes he was telling which made them memorable. This method of comedy made the show unique and really highlighted Long’s quirky and talented nature.
McCausland came on stage promptly after a short interval and came across extremely at-ease and comfortable. Sometimes at comedy shows I have felt myself feeling anxious as to whether the comedian’s joke will land how they hoped and be reciprocated by the crowd but there was no need to feel this way with McCausland due to the confidence he possessed in his material being obvious. The show didn’t have a theme as such like many other comedy shows do but this was actually more enjoyable as it allowed McCausland to dip his toe into a variety of different themes ranging from his time presenting the Royal Variety Performance to middle-aged medical problems he faces (I commend him for his honesty in this part).
The mundane every-day life issues were discussed which were equally relatable and thought provoking. I thought it was noteworthy how McCausland incorporated his blindness into jokes across the night while also raising awareness for situations he faces as a blind person that may not be an issue as such to the majority of the audience. The one thing I did notice is that many of McCausland’s jokes were suited for perhaps the Gen-X or Millennial spectators which did unfortunately mean some stories went over my head, but it was an enjoyable listen despite not fully understanding the context.
My one takeaway that will stick with me from the night was the humble nature McCausland possesses, which was very refreshing for someone in the public eye as he was endlessly thankful to the crowd for coming out, the staff working at the venue and Dianne Buswell (his Strictly Come Dancing partner) for supporting him.
Rating: ★★★★☆
Chris McCausland ~ Yonks! is touring the U.K. until May 18th
