Brian Conley: Still The Greatest Entertainer in His Price Range at Preston Guildhall Review

Reviewed by Joanne Carney

IT’S A PUPPET!!

From beginning to end the audience was gripped by the entertainment provided by Brian Conley. I must admit, I knew very little about the 90s superstar beforehand, which meant I didn’t know what to expect.

Brian entered the stage to the track, ‘Don’t worry be happy.’ Even though the theatre was not full, the audience filled the room with cheer.

He immediately began cracking jokes about himself, which I loved. Brian has a similar look to Bradley Walsh. He then proceeded to wrap tape around his head to flatten his nose, “I look like him now, don’t I!”

I did recognise him from his recent stint on ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ where he wasn’t very successful. “I got more points on my driving licence”, he said.

Brian had a great wingman called Matt Ricardo, who delighted the audience with his amazing juggling skills.

The combination of humour, singing, dancing and a little bit of fire eating was enough to keep the audience entertained for over two hours. Behind the bright lights and slapstick comedy was a man with a fabulous voice. I particularly enjoyed his collaboration of songs from theatrical shows that he had been in.

Word of warning – audience participation was required (ha ha). A couple of people got up on the stage. One received his CD for free! Other audience members were just asked questions, all were asked to clap and cheer. Although reluctant at first, I did quite enjoy the competition we had in terms of, which side of the theatre is loudest.

At the end Brian answered questions from the audience. This was a nice and refreshing touch. He didn’t hold back with his answers and seemed a genuine and approachable guy.

Rating: 4/5

Brian Conley is currently on tour with Still The Greatest Entertainer in His Price Range, for more information and tour dates visit brianconley.com.

For other shows at the Preston Guild Hall visit www.prestonguildhall.co.uk.

The Guild Hall & Charter Theatre, Lancaster Road, Preston, PR1 1HT | 01772 804444