By Isle of Wight Observer
Comedian and TV presenter, Jason Manford, entertained packed audiences at Shanklin Theatre with his trademark blend of observational humour and engaging wit. He quickly established that The Town House, Tommy Bradshaw’s, and The Falcon are the heart of Shanklin’s nightlife.
Support act Stephen Grant warmed up the crowd with tales of Brighton life and the highs and lows of following the Seagulls, while visitors from South Africa and Canada added to the international flavour of the evening.
But it was Manford’s 90-minute masterclass – promising (and failing) to finish at 9.40pm – that left the audience wanting more. From a misunderstanding in a Thai sauna to reflections on his early stand-up days (now performed sitting down), his recruitment for Waterloo Road, support for Soccer Aid, and fears of ever appearing on I’m A Celebrity, the set was packed with punch-lines and personality.
His stories about ‘Homes Under the Hammer’ star, Dion Dublin, brought the house down, while his affection for family shone through in a series of dad jokes – most memorably gifting fathers a line about a ‘Flock of Cows’, and a topical segment on bank transfer references.
As the latest in a long line of top comedians to grace the Shanklin stage, Manford’s razor-sharp banter and warm delivery left residents and visitors alike hoping for his swift return.
After the show, Jason was seen putting his newfound knowledge of Shanklin’s night-life to the test with a visit to The Falcon. He warmly posed for a photo with Stephen Leach, holding a picture of Stephen and his late wife, Dawn, whose father the bar is named in honour of.
