From the bright lights of Live at the Apollo to the chaotic evenings of Edinburgh’s International Fringe Festival, we now see Tom Stade take on his epic stand-up comedy tour around the UK for 2022/23. It is here, in the Leicester Square Theatre where we see his tour Tom Stade: The High Life come to London.
Tom Stade is an absolute powerhouse of comedy
As we take our seats, we hear the blissful rasp of Tom’s voice echoing through the theatre as he introduces his supporting act: Gareth Mutch. For someone to accompany any stand-up act is definitely a challenge, however Mutch effortlessly plays the part well and shines valiantly within his own set. A well known face from the Edinburgh Fringe scene, it is clear to see the passion in his performance and the joy he brings from stand-up. With such conviction in everything he says- it is hard to take him seriously when he is. From obscure questioning, to antics from his lockdown experience (such as the joys of living with your parents… again) – it is refreshing to see a comic give their all and continue to carry the first half of the production in their stride. Mutch is definitely a comic to keep an eye out for on the horizon and this critic will be looking forward to reviewing his own show when he inevitably ends up in Leicester Square Theatre.
Soon after Mutch’s set, we are given a moment to recover and grab a few beveragino’s before Mr. Stade takes the stage. Then just like a lion’s roar, he appears on the stage to a thunderous applause from the audience. It is clear to see that Mr. Stade was right where he needed to be.
Tom Stade is an absolute powerhouse of comedy. With his use of coming timing and intuition, he cleverly formulates his humour with such structure and intelligence which leaves you in stitches from all the laughing. The whole set came and went in a flash yet it felt as though we could all listen to him for days and not get bored of what he has to offer. His canadian wit merged with his spanking new white suit jacket really makes Tom Stade feel like the world's funniest Al Pachino impersonator. And like Al Pachino did with his machine gun, Stade floored the audience into absolute hysterics.
Stade pokes humour at the idea of generational differences. From getting older and looking forward to the kids leaving the nest to the social media obsession of the millennial generation. Tom challenges the audience to let go and not find offense from every comment made- pushing through the micro analysis of what someone says and just have a laugh. It is clear to see that Tom Stade is a veteran comedian that has no means of slowing down. No one is safe throughout his set. Whether you are a violent heckler or a silent attendee- be sure Stade will find a reason to jab a bit of fun at you. His set is thrilling, engaging, stomach hurting and genuinely funny. It is difficult to fault him. His comedy styling is absolutely flawless.
This tour is a testament to Stade’s career for everything he has worked towards to achieve and will continue to achieve. I urge everyone to see Tom Stade with his upcoming tour dates for 2023- he will definitely not disappoint. Comedy was made to entertain and strike fun during the toughest of times. This can not be more true from both comedians. Tom Stade: The High Road is the perfect escape from the troubles of the real world.
