Russell Howard delights crowd with rip-roaring show at Birmingham's Resorts World Arena - review

After a year's break from stand-up, the 39-year-old stormed the stage for his new tour, Respite, like he had never been away.

Known for his popular TV show, Russell Howard's Good News, the comedian's stand up act is fairly similar – he's famed for poking fun at unusual and often depressing news stories, but always has a meaningful message behind his jokes.

He spoke a lot about the state of the planet and climate change, yet how people were focussed on other such ridiculous things – he brought up how fellow comedian Jo Brand had been interviewed by the police for her gag about Nigel Farage.

The newly-married funny-man performed on a unique, circular stage in the packed out Resorts World Arena.

With four colossal screens surrounding him ensuring the people at the back had a close-up view, Russell would turn round to face all four corners of the venue to give the entire audience an even split of attention.

Some of his jokes were way too rude to write here, but they drew the biggest roars of laughter from the crowd.

It's safe to say after a year off – the comedian was filming Russell & Mum, a new show where he travelled around the USA with his equally hilarious mother – Russell hadn't lost his touch.

He delighted the audience with tales about his family, specifically his mother, father and brother – with some touching stories about his funny Uncle Tim.

His anecdotes about his mischievous nephews had the crowds in stitches, as he re-told of the time they put Lego in an auntie's shoes for a prank.

But Russell's main message of the evening was centred around loving each other, finding the humour even in the darkest times, and keeping memories of lost loved ones alive.

He spoke fondly about his wife Cerys, who he said first got together with him when he was "just a trolley boy".

The couple were married in June this year – and live together in London with their Jack Russell Terrier named Archie.

The Mock the Week star was a hit in Birmingham – he nailed the accent and made sure his jokes were relevant for the area, mentioning being "sunburnt in Dudley", and "racing down Birmingham High Street".

It was 90 minutes of hilarity, with the audience cheering long after he left the stage.

Russell Howard was supported by comedian Steve Hall, who has appeared on Good News, who did an exceptional job at warming the audience up for the show ahead.

He will be performing at a sold out show in Cardiff tonight before heading to Nottingham on Thursday.