Bill Bailey, Qualmpeddler Alhambra Theatre (tonight and tomorrow night)

 

Tonight Bill Bailey was in Bradford to peddle his qualms. Standard fodder for stand-up, you might think? Not the way “that guy from Have I Got QI Never Mind the Black Books For You,” does it.

That is how the West Country com-edian introduced himself to the Alhambra, and yes, he is largely known for TV panel shows.

But during his two-hour routine he proved he is at his best when he commands the stage on his own.

Qualmpeddler sees Bailey muse on modern day life – meandering through a range of topics, from the coalition and cult of celebrity to the rise of text speak.

Some of the subject matter is familiar territory, but the thing that sets him apart is his surrealist style and energetic delivery. Bailey is undoubtedly intelligent and a master of language, but performs with child-like whimsy.

That shines through during a series of unlikely musical interludes, showcasing his talent on a multitude of instruments.

I think it’s fair to say no one in Bradford would have expected to hear a reggae-dub mash-up of the Downton Abbey theme tune while out on a Friday. You never know what Bailey is going to say or do next, and that’s the beauty. I’d have no qualms recommending it.