Victoria Wood is a natural treasure, that’s undeniable. Her wit, her warmth, her natural talent - it is all encapsulated in Looking For Me Friend: The Music of Victoria Wood starring Paulus, who we got to know during BBC’s All Together Now.

Clearly a long time coming, having been postponed three times at the Town and Gown due to the pandemic, this is a superb piece for fringe, which guarantees that you will leave the theatre with a big smile on your face. Whether you are a Victoria Wood aficionado or someone with little knowledge of her work, it is impossible not to enjoy this performance.

Paulus’ wide eyed charm and easy interaction with the audience makes this love letter to Wood an utter pleasure to watch. Whilst nerves are evident initially (most likely due to the recent introduction of a two-act show as opposed to a one hour set), this soon passes and we are treated to a whistle-stop tour through some of Wood’s best known musical compositions, intertwined with Paulus’ own stories about the love and admiration he has for his idol and her clear impact on his life growing up. Song highlights are most definitely ‘Political Correctness Gone Mad’ and the thrilling finale of ‘Let’s Do It’.

Donned in a long line blue blazer and yellow shoes in the first act and a pink get-up in the second, Paulus looks effervescent under the stage lights in front of beautifully lit stage tabs, adding to its cabaret feel.

Brilliantly accompanied throughout by his pianist Michael Roulston, the pair have great banter and the fact that Victoria Wood’s material was the conduit that brought them together is very heartwarming. Whilst Paulus’ name is on the poster, they very much appear as a double act, and a good one at that.

A warm hug in performance form and a gorgeous homage to this late, great comedy genius.

**** Four stars

Reviewed by: Jenny Ell

Looking For Me Friend currently has touring dates until October, with a month-long residency at the Edinburgh Fringe. Tickets are available here.