If I was a betting man, and my local Ladbrokes burnt down on the day of the
Grand National, and I needed another "dead cert" to put my money on, one option
would be Ian Stone. Obviously not as a runner at Aintree (that would just
be strange), but as a sure thing to keep a standup audience laughing raucously
for the duration of his set.
Stone's material is
built on a solid foundation of keen observations and topical
witticism. Occasionally he shifts gear, almost taking you by surprise, with a well
timed pun. His likable persona allows him to weave through a range of
topics, meandering through a scattering of well placed asides.
Ian Stone's professionalism really becomes apparent when dealing with
hecklers, or simply audience members who feel that a standup performance should
be more of a two-way exchange. He puts down audience interruptions
without breaking stride, using smart and relevant observations
in situations that might leave less seasoned comics stumbling for words.
His performance leaves no doubt that he stands head and
shoulders above many comics in his league, with material and delivery that
few stand-ups on the current circuit can match.
Funny.co.uk Comedy Club, Haywards Heath, 12th
September 2004
