The audience had been patiently waiting for some minutes when Jaik Campbell arrived late for his own show, looking a little flustered.

He turned down the lights and announced over the technician’s microphone that the comedy could be commencing in one minute. A few minutes later, he made a second announcement, with his characteristic stutter, asking the audience to welcome Jaik Campbell to the stage. The audience looked on bemused.

After this slow start, Campbell managed to charm the audience, exuding his natural shyness and warmth of character, and delivering some first-rate gags.

It was, however, a faltering performance. At times, Campbell appeared to lack confidence and around one third of his gags missed their target. The show also lacked structure and relied, perhaps, too heavily on pathos for its humour. He came across as a slightly shambolic figure, who had lost his job and apparently could not find a girlfriend.

It was a pity, because Campbell’s previous work has shown he is a gifted comedian who can do much better. It would be great to see him return to the fringe next year with a stronger show and a more assured performance.