Being a Newton fan, I set off to the quaint Catalina Theatre at Wilson’s Wharf unfairly expecting something similar to his Defending The Laid Man which had me in stitches last year. His new show is somewhat different.

His opening sketches ensured that the audience sat up straight ready for a rollercoaster evening of laughter. Soon he embarked on the “politically incorrect” and touched on subjects that can easily offend sensitive theatre goers. He, however, does it with charm. A brilliant concept of attacking holy cows and topics we would normally only whisper about. Brave and creating an expectation of “this is really going to be different”. But then he stops - almost as if he himself has been offended by the subject matter and returns to material that reminds of his previous show. Funny, yet old news.

The audience was quiet for just a bit too long when he changed from relationship material to rugby commentators, cricket (a brilliant skit) and finally to a clever and hilarious look at infomercials.

Newton is good stand-up comedian. Very good. This time round, he relies a lot more on swearing and shouting à la stand-up comedy. The show has the potential to become the huge success his previous show has been, should he be more prepared and at ease with his material.

At a guess, I would say give him a few more runs and he will be a lot more comfortable. And so would his audiences.

David Newton: Politically Incorrect runs at the Catalina Theatre until May 20 with shows from Tuesday until Saturday at 20h00 (Sundays at 18h00). No shows Monday. Tickets R60 (R50 pensioners and students). Tickets available online at www.strictlytickets.co.za or at www.catalinatheatre.co.za or at www.goingplaces.co.za

To book and for block booking discounts and charity fundraisers call Thandeka on 031 305 6889. – Tom Lucas