Live At The Apollo

It's that time of the year, when comedians flock to Edinburgh to show off their new gags, while we at home must be content with tried and tested repeats. Happily, there's a sterling line-up on Dave, beginning with the most recent series of Live at the Apollo. Funnyman of the moment Michael McIntyre hosts tonight, gleefully extracting comic gold out of broken-down buses, limp handshakes and the oft-neglected joys of skipping.

Episode 4.1 Review

Michael McIntyre compered for this opening episode, proving once again that he's easily one of the best comedians on the circuit today. Joyously enthusiastic, he skips around the stage, merrily dispensing his gags with an endearing child-like glee.

When it flies, stand-up comedy is an exhilarating experience, and this - the first of a new series of Live at the Apollo - is a spectacularly good example of the genre. It is introduced by Michael McIntyre, who minces around the stage exploding with energy ('When I smile,' he asks, 'do I look like a fat Chinese man?' Yes, Michael, you know you do). He is followed by Rich Hall, who describes how an Englishman loses his temper ('I shall write a letter!') and how he met the Queen at Buckingham Palace. And it ends with an insane performance by a Welshman, Rhod Gilbert, who has a high-octane nervous breakdown trying to buy a duvet. If even a tiny part of you enjoys stand-up, you don't want to miss this.

A new series of the brilliant comedy showcase at London's Hammersmith Apollo. It kicks off with Michael McIntyre, who was hilarious at Prince Charles' birthday show.