**

Charlie Baker is from Devon with a loud personality – think Brian Blessed and Jack Black. He mentions at the outset, he sings jazz and he does have a strong singing voice. He opens brightly enough with a couple of audience participation routines.

The main problem with his act is his stand up material. It has a dated feel. As the performance moves to a close, the flaws become increasingly apparent. A routine on his wife giving birth by Caesarean section is truly awful. His attempts to be clever and cutting edge are just crude, patronising and hackneyed.

Charlie Baker The World's Greatest Show-Off

Company: - Charlie Baker

Venue: - Just the Tonic Cave II V 88

Dates: - 6 to 30 August 2009 (not 18)

Times: - 18.40 to 19.40

Fringe Programme Page: - p34 C 19