Manos the Greek: The Tale of an Immigrant,

Article by Kate Russell | 18 Aug 2011

Manos’ show is, as it says, the tale of his life. He weaves from his Greek orthodox baptism, through adolescent crushes, moving to England, marriage, and into the future. His anecdotes are full of smart, subtle humour, and a running joke about language links it together, but unfortunately there are a number of little flaws, the combination of which cause parts of the show to crumble.

The decision to go without a mic is an early bad judgement call – he is not a loud, shouty performer, and though he can be heard it is sometimes a strain. Too often, his delicate, textured jokes are lost due to the recall points required having been missed. Perhaps a mic would also help to stamp his authority, and prevent his witty punchlines being trampled on by interruptions. The punchlines he does deliver are too often glossed over.

He is an endearing performer, interesting and clearly very intelligent without being self-congratulatory. His passion shows through, and it is a shame that there are enough leaks to bring down the dam.

Manos the Greek: The Tale of an Immigrant, Laughing Horse @ Meadow Bar, 16.00, Free