Ben Van der Velde: Fablemaker

Witty comedian Ben Van der Velde has made a name for himself conjuring bizarre improvised stories through audience interaction. This evening is no different, as he tickles and embarrasses the crowd in equal measure.

Sarcastically mocking us for coming out on a Tuesday evening, he describes the seating as “adversarial”, with the benches facing each other, proving that not even the furniture is off limits when it comes to his material.

The comedian’s signature trait is out in full force here, as he involves everyone in the room. Labelling two young men dressed in turtleneck sweaters and glasses as philosophical intellectuals, and following this by assigning another couple billionaire and zombie status respectively, Van der Velde garners giddy laughter from everyone.

The performer focuses his story on British politician Dominic Raab, though some of the jokes don’t land for the international crowd. However, the comic takes this in his stride, and the rest of the gig surrounds the idea of a revolution and New Eden, with several tongue-in-cheek jokes thrown in at the expense of the crowd. Some of the witticisms “have to percolate like a good red wine”, Van der Velde assures us, not getting thrown off even on the few occasions that the gags don’t agree with everyone – a common occurrence in standup comedy.

Van der Velde steers the comedic ship with an ease that is only aided by a favourably jovial, interactive and diverse audience. That does not exclude this critic, who Van der Velde high fives. He then gives 10 points to Gryffindor (a Harry Potter reference for those who don’t know). Thumbs up all the way.

Selina Begum
Photo: Andy Hollingworth

Ben Van der Velde: Fablemaker is on at Vault Festival from 18^th-19^th February 2020.

Read more reviews from our Vault Festival 2019 coverage here.

For further information about the event visit the Vault Festival website here.