Heroes @ The Criterion, Leicester
Review by Olly Sullivan
LA State of Mind, Mel B’s second album went down in history as a flop. It’s safe to say that Matt Hollins’ LE8 State of Mind fared better on its opening night.
It’s a tough ask to make light of Blaby and Countesthorpe, but the former Leicester Mercury’s Comedian of the Year kept a packed-out crowd at The Criterion in high spirits throughout his hour long set.
Reminiscing on his life in the Leicestershire postcode, the local crowd relished his witty stories about his albeit mediocre life getting thrashed at football by elusive school teachers and his uninspiring story about an encounter with a Spice Girl.
Forget your high profile game shows with their high budget prizes – Hollins’ dazzling competition on who’s lived in the funniest postcode had the crowd roaring. I don’t find much funny about LS29 and the village of Ilkley, mind.
With his classic deadpan style, Hollins ensured there was rarely a dull moment – making droll topics like Leicester’s hard water in to something funny – or by talking to the ever confused Ruby the Border Collie in the front row.
If it wasn’t for Hollins’ blend of awkwardness, sarcasm and nerves, the show would be a flop. Instead, it was thoroughly enjoyable.
Given his pedigree and rapport with the crowd, it was a sad end to the night seeing him clutching a pint glass for donations. If you’re from the Leicester area and want to reminisce, buy yourself a ticket on his return – and keep him on the scene.
Posted on Thursday 16 February 2017