Older and wiser but just as funny as ever

Last year, the hugely likeable comedian came back to the stand-up arena the first time since 2000. He toured Australia with his new show, Life Is Pain, and it was a roaring success.

The comic has over the last nine years also acquired a worldwide following for the work he does on BBC panel show QI, and has also found acclaim as an actor in shows such as Whites, The Brief, and Bob and Rose.

He said: “Being on stage again feels like coming home. When I was touring in Australia, I would stand in the wings, look at the microphone and think, ‘I can’t wait to be out there’.

“It’s fantastic to have that feeling again. It’s just you and an audience in a room. There’s none of the paraphernalia of TV or radio.

“You’re pleased they’re there, and they’re pleased you’re there. It’s a very simple deal, a lovely contract.”

Alan, who is married with two young children, reflects that his comedy is inevitably different from the last time he was touring. “I’m 46 now, and I’ve got different things to talk about. I couldn’t do the stuff I talked about my 20s now – that would be ridiculous.

“Now I talk about how children change your life and how I haven’t been out for two and a half years since having them! We went to a restaurant once, but we had to go back home after the starter. We had to bring the rest of the meal home in a box!”

The show starts at 8pm on November 14. Tickets are £25 and available from the White Rock Theatre box office on 01424 462288, or online at whiterocktheatre.org.uk.