Glasgow Comedy Festival

Simon Amstell: To Be Free, Citizens Theatre

Marianne Gunn

Four stars

As one of the more youthful -looking 35-year-old comedians on the circuit, Simon Amstell must be doing something right. He preaches being vegan with a ferocious tenacity and, although he does not mention this is in the show, he is also teetotal. Calling his show 'To Be Free' seems somewhat ironic, as Amstell has placed so many restrictions on himself; it seems when an opportunity to enjoy himself arises he has the ability to thwart his own pleasure at every turn - possibly, by his own admission, turning down some beautiful adventures on the way.

Amstell's Jewish background has featured heavily in his previous work, whether his stand-up or his writing. His parent's divorce is also, evidently, something which has shaped his experiences and, although he claims to have found romantic happiness now, he still does not appear completely content. Such is the life of a clown (unless, as Amstell quite rightly points out, you're his friend Russell Brand).

His show's content is both cerebral and puerile, which is quite a balancing act; he refers to himself as a juggler occasionally and his interaction with the audience shows the nimble workings of his mind. Sometimes an element of disdain can enter his wordplay though and - unless it is all part of the well-formed stage persona - that might explain why he does not have mass appeal. "How can homosexuality still be judged when Elton John wrote The Lion King?" was one of his more whimsical observations.

Support was provided by Norwegian Daniel Simonsen who, through dead pan observations and gentle physical comedy, gave an insight into his world of self-deprecation and cats - he's one to watch.