Chris McCausland “Yonks” Live at the Harrogate Royal Hall live review by Graham Finney
It comes as no surprise to find that Chris McCausland’s “Yonks” comedy tour has become a huge success following his landmark win on “Strictly Come Dancing” in December 2024, where he became the show’s first-ever blind contestant to lift the trophy. “Over twenty years I’ve been doing this,” he jokes early on, adding “only to find it seems I could be a better dancer than I am a comedian.”
“Yonks,” a word which the comedian explains, means nothing, is perfectly suited to a show about, in his words, “absolutely nothing.” The latter isn’t strictly true though as “Yonks” finds McCausland travelling through many relatable life experiences. From his childhood in Liverpool through his University days, into his life as a comedian, and now, an unexpected dance success story, twenty-one years grafting away on the circuit finds a man who has honed his stories into a wonderful ninety minute show.
Nostalgia, childhood memories, friendships and technology, McCausland tackles them all head-on, effortlessly using pauses before delivering a killer punchline which, given the universally relatable subjects he explores, you knew were coming at some point.
However, where McCausland differs from other comics is how he approaches these subjects from the point of a man with a visual impairment. What might seem a trivial matter to some, becomes a whole different experience if you’re in McCausland’s shoes. However, the self-depreciating way in which he approaches his disability, and the challenges he faces on a day to day basis, make him a true master of his art.
Having been running long before his Strictly win, “Yonks”, now finds the comic having to weave these new experiences into his story. Again, he does so effortlessly, as he jokes his way through rubbing shoulders with celebrities, meeting royalty and dealing with stereotypes of disabilities in the entertainment world.
“Yonks” is a show that McCausland describes as going back to his true love which is stand-up. His tales include awkward experiences with an unfortunate hashtag and having to deal with “mens problems” which had many in this sold-out hall squirming in their seats. However, McCausland’s fantastic delivery and ability to weave his disability into each story without any awkwardness, make “Yonks” an experience that gives you plenty to think about while you’re laughing your way into his next unfortunate tale.
Yes, he admits his world has changed since the success of Strictly but, as he leaves the stage, he genuinely looks moved by the reaction of the crowd. He knows his profile has exploded since his game-changing win on Strictly but, back where he loves to be, “Yonks” shows this is his true habitat and one where we all hope McCausland will stay for “yonks” to come.
To keep up with all of Chris’s tour dates, head over to his Official Website here.
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