Neil Dougan: Rough Rared

At the centre of Rough Rared lies a deep affection for Belfast. Deeply rooted in the manners, tensions and charms of that city, Neil Dougan sustains a well-balanced set on his Northern Irish background with fresh explorations of family life, health, sectarianism and Viagra.

How can toughness and tenderness co-exist in our closest relationships? This question underpins the most lucid material in the show, as Dougan probes the contradictions inherent in trying to enable his kids to cope in the world whilst maintaining fatherly concern. His straightforward knack of combining tough-minded observations with affectionate warmth releases a fizzing energy in the room as he riffs urgently on Facebook bullying and simple-minded religious fundamentalists. An excellent piece on the decorative idiosyncrasies of Belfast housing provides a key point in the set, with spirited quips on accents paving the way for a gripping finale.

Cumulating in a powerful closing section that steers a course between reflections on his Belfast council estate and the pitfalls of Viagra, Rough Rared is an honest, witty and very likeable hour of comedy.