Once in a blue moon you take a punt on a show at 11pm and to your surprise, you find pure gold. Last night was in fact a blue moon and Chris Sainton-Clarks’ Tales from a British Country Pub at theSpace @ Surgeons' Hall is nothing short of pure nectar.
A charming, well-crafted, intelligent and hilarious performer
Stainton-Clark fills the space with that rare quality found only when an artist is on the precipice of great success. His is a charming, well-crafted, intelligent and hilarious performer who captivates his audience and carry us along with him. In return he receives spontaneous outburst of sing-along and clapping.
His tales are told in a string of ten or so songs. He's the lyricist, composer and performer. Each song features one or more of the various characters he‘s encountered working in pubs, from his locals in his home county of Norfolk to places further afield. With guitar in hand and clearly enjoying himself, he tells of his troublesome and hilarious experiences. There are compulsive liars, disruptive youths, clinical oversharers, fruit machine addicts and many more. The genres range from comedy rap to country folk which he applies to his refreshingly honest observations of toxic masculinity, first love, conversational blinders, male bonding the British drinking culture and teenage angst.
Each song takes a satirical and scathing outlook at British pub culture. It's all very light-heatred and amusing with the added joy of hearing about very recognisable characters, some of whom you've almost certainly encountered when you've popped out for a pint. You might even meet yourself!
It's a fun ending to day at the Fringe or prelude to a long night out. Catch it while you can. Shows like this come around once in a blue moon.
