The first things that strikes you about John Newton is that there is nothing massively striking about him.  First impressions are that his appearance, stage manner and delivery are all very ordinary.  However, at this point do not be lulled into a false understanding that what you are going to get is a mediocre comedy experience.  John Newton does not need gimmicks, stage characters or personas, as what he has is something far more valuable to any comedian... a good old fashioned 'back to basics' knack for excellent gag writing.

John manages to steer clear of cliche or hack material, instead delivering some artfully constructed, and very original pieces.  Filled with keen observations, John covers a range of topics, leaving the audience contemplating such obscure subjects as the socio-economic stability of 'Thomas the Tank Engines' home island of Sodor.

As the first act of the night he faced a tough crowd who were yet to loosen up for the evening and as a result the more protracted "story-telling" elements of his act did little to help the situation.  Slipping in a well timed pun, however, picked up the pace again.  With more of the same skilful writing and perhaps a better balance of snappy gags to anecdotes this relative newcomer will become an even more enjoyable act to watch.