The bbc is home to some brilliant comedic shows that fly right under the radar due to ill-judged programming, and one of these hidden gems is Count Arthur Strong. The programme follows the life of an ex-phsycic who is now a senile old man with a rather crippling speech impediment. The Count is loveable if also painful to endure at times, in all the best ways of course, and has actually captivated a very dedicated audience. With a successful television show under his belt, Count Arthur headed out on a headline tour all around the UK, and his most recent stop was in Tunbridge Wells, and by all accounts, it was comedic brilliance of the highest order. 

The Count treats the audience to multiple musical tributes including an extended homage to The Beatles, or rather just the members that he actually likes. As well as this the show is packed with incredible one liners that will leave you reeling for the minutes after, and have you chuckling even as you are driving home. The show also contains a ventriloquism section as Arthur tries to control his friend 'Sulky Monkey' to very little effect, much to the benefit of the audience. The highlight however came during his impromptu sermon midway through the show in which he attempts to tell the story of 'Alan and Evelyn in the Garden of Edam'.

The show was a masterclass in one man comedy, and over all too soon despite its 90 minute run time. The crowd were in hysterics from start to finish, and even those who were reluctant at first to truly accept what it was they were seeing, eventually fell prey to Count Arthur Strong's inherent charm. It won't be too long before the Count goes back on tour, and when he does, I can't recommend strongly enough, just how important it is that you attend his show.

Faber Whitehouse - Gravesend Grammar School