Review: Pam Ayres, Wolverhampton Grand Theatre
Poetry that told stories of the everyday - motherhood, housework, a husband's stubbornness and of course Fred the racehorse, this was an evening of laughs led by a broadcaster that has had more than 40 years of success.
Pam Ayres, dressed in all black with a shocking pink kimono jacket next to a table of some of her best work, was an unimposing figure on the stage at The Grand last night.
The well-known and much-loved writer, poet and comedienne was relaxed, relatable and down to earth as she regaled tales from her own childhood as well as that of rearing her own children.
Referring to her 2011 bestselling autobiography The Necessary Aptitude, the radio star reminded the audience of the things they may have forgotten from their own early lives.
Little nuances from growing up - the rag rugs, the flint gun full of insecticide, the carbolic soap. It was a trip down memory lane for many, with long laughs coming from deeper reminiscences of the audience's own.
Pam's reflections on the times she didn't recognise her own grown-up son on the rugby field to the pride of her husband who knows everything and could solve every national crisis - she made us feel like we knew her, and knew her well.
One particular favourite moment was the recounting of the story of Fred the racehorse, shortly to compete in the Grand National.
Because of the danger of falling and dying, Fred reveals his last will and testament - leaving all he owns to his best friend - a Shetland pony.
Pam revealed that this poem was so popular that she was asked about what happened to Fred when in Australia and made up something 'on the hoof' to resolve his story.
Indeed, Pam's poetry now graces school textbooks across the globe and in 2016 her latest poetry book You Made Me Late Again was the most borrowed in the UK. It's not hard to see why.
Pam delivered a charming, understated, truly funny evening surrounded by people that by the end of the show felt like your long lost friends.
She is continuing to perform around the UK until the end of the year. For more information and tickets, visit pamayres.com
