UK Theatre Network

Bobby Pattinson and Friends

The Customs House, South Shields, Tyne & Wear

Friday 6^th March 2009

The North East’s own comedy legend, Bobby Pattinson, made a triumphant return to The Customs House last night and confirmed his status as ‘The Godfather of Geordie Comedy’ with a sensational sell-out show.

Bobby, a tireless charity fund-raiser, is a spritely seventy-five year old with the gift of the gab and a mischievous twinkle in his eye. His gigs are always popular with audiences who revel in the type of entertainment that was once the staple of Clubland for decades, but is now, sadly, all too rare.

The evening was packed full of entertainment that included songs, impressions and cabaret. The first guest to join Bobby on stage was guitarist and singer Dave Black who, it was revealed, turned down an offer in the 80s to join a new band. Having spent many years on the road, Dave declined and recommended one of his music students. The student was John Taylor and the band became Duran Duran! That’s showbiz.

Black demonstrated his talents with performances including Fields of Gold, Abracadabra and Rockin’ All Over The World. The dance troupe, ‘The Dolly Rockers’ provided the ‘showgirls’ element with some fantastic choreographed routines.

Comedian and singer Paul Squire had the audience eating from his hand with his mix of jokes, impressions and ballads. His jokes about Geordies were particularly well-received, proving that, here in the North East, we don’t mind laughing at ourselves.

The final guest was Radio Newcastle presenter and comedian Alfie Joey and he was a huge hit with the audience. His impressions of Bruce Forsyth and Michael Crawford were only surpassed by his witty and satirical swipe at George Bush and Tony Blair’s ‘special relationship.’

The show was, quite simply, three hours of laughter and song performed by a group of great entertainers. However, as marvellous as his guests may have been, it was the slick septogenarian who really brought the house down. Long reign, King Bobby!

Steve Burbridge.