Geoff has been a fan of Phil Nichol for years, it took me some time however to see him perform stand-up. I had admired his acting for some time. It has got so bad we now go through world-wars to decide who gets his ticket during the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

On discovering he was coming to our local theatre, the Alhambra Dunfermline we were well up the line to get tickets.  Hand in hand with the Gilded Balloon, the Alhambra has become part of the Scottish ‘Comedy Circuit’.

Phil came on stage to introduce the evening and left us in the more than capable hands of Stephen Carlin. Geoff and I both thought Stephen’s name was familiar but had not seen him.  Stephen had stage presence and settled into his routine straight away. We felt for him as one audience member seemed determined to become part of the act, not seeing that he was becoming the but of several jokes.  This Scottish born comedian lives and works in London but comes up home to perform at The Stand Comedy Club and also for the Fringe. He is a name to look out for.

After a short interval Stephen returned to introduce Mr Nichol. Phil was his own hyperactive self although this time I thought at first glance he had brought a Canadian Grizzly Bear with him! I am assured the facial hair will be vanishing again. He settled directly into his set with the speed and seemingly tireless energy he always displays. Despite this being the last night of his Scottish tour, fortunately for those who missed him this time he is coming to The Stand Comedy Club in the not too distant future.

An amazing night was had by all and four other dates have already been planned for further information see both the Alhambra and Gilded Balloon websites. For further information see Phil’s own website and for other comedy in central Scotland see The Stand Comedy Club Website.

www.gildedballoon.co.uk      www.alhambradunfermline.com      www.philnichol.co.uk        www.thestand.co.uk

We are already planning to see Rhona Cameron on Saturday 7^th March.

Phil Nichol with support Stephen Carlin at The Alhambra Theatre Dunfermline Sunday 1st March 2009 at 7-30pm.  Gilded Balloon Comedy Circuit in association with The Alhambra Theatre Dunfermline.  www.gildedballoon.co.uk   and   www.alhambradunfermline.com