A comic view of the world

Sep 12 2008 by Francesca Elliott, Chester Chronicle

Comedian and musician Richard Digance will soon be gracing North Wales on one of his rare visits.

As part of his latest tour, Richard, 59, will be performing his unique mix of music and comedy at the Pavilion Theatre, Rhyl on Tuesday, September 16.

Richard has been performing live since the 1970s supporting the likes of Steve Martin, Robin Williams, The Beach Boys and Status Quo.

He was awarded the Gold Award from The British Academy of Composers and Songwriters in 2003 for his contribution to British comedy songwriting.

“I’m a perpetual tourer, I’ve been a working musician for 30 years,” said Richard.

“It’s what I was made to do, I don’t really take many breaks. I haven’t played in Rhyl for well over 20 years but I’m looking forward to going back. I tend to play most of my gigs down south where I originally started, so it will be nice to have a change of scenery.

“I get quite a mixed audience. Older people tend to recognise me from Countdown, where as younger people know me from comedy work I did with Paramount, and they like the acoustic guitar as well, which seems to be popular these days.”

As well as extensive touring, Richard has also recorded 20 albums, written eight books and two film scripts.

He is currently working on his latest novel Greed, which he describes as ridiculing egotistical and extravagant footballers.

Performing live is his main love though and he says he always tries to keep his work fresh.

“My comic style is based more on storytelling than joke after joke,” said Richard.

“I tend to use whatever’s been happening in the world that week as my material. There’s also quite a lot of singing and I love it when people join in. I want people to have a nice evening.”

Richard also plans to take part in the Great North Run again this year with his friend Carol Vorderman.

“Carol and I trudge round together. She spends her time memorising the numbers in pi and I just try not to collapse!

“It’s good fun and singing all the time keeps my lungs fit.”

Tickets to see Richard Digance are priced £15.50. To book call the box office on 01745 33 00 00 or book online at www.rhylpavilion.co.uk