THE arrival of a 31 year-old “I’m A Celebrity” runner-up to perform his stand-up routine in Richmond caused something of a stir in the historic venue.

With the ancient boards vibrating to the sound of contemporary metal band Korn, the airborne pheromones were practically visible in an auditorium packed with young people.

Dommett himself, casually attired in ripped jeans and a leather jacket, seemed childishly delighted with the theatre, describing it as “the most beautiful building I’ve ever been in” and milking the intimacy of the audience interaction. Telling us with his contagious charm that “it’s gonna be so much fun” made me wonder briefly during the "laser dick" song whether Dommett’s definition of "fun" might differ from mine.

The young audience however, clearly loved it, and the likeable comedian went on to more than redeem himself in my 50-something eyes.

Fondly self-deprecating, Dommett’s humour comprised tales of his life so far – his "failed" band Psirus, lying to his best friend Steve, disastrous dates and the social media expose of a somewhat unwise episode involving a beautiful woman and Skype.

He thoroughly exploited the potential for audience participation with an invitation onstage to young Ted, a “drummer” of Grade 1 capability, the discretionary activation of an on-stage confetti machine by an audience member and some ad hoc crowd surfing – possibly an all-time first for the Georgian.

He weaved his narratives and reprised them for maximum humour before ending the evening with betrayed mate and bass player Steve being welcomed on stage. An enthusiastic full house more than willingly joined in their hilarious rendition of Oh, Come all Ye Faithful and stamped and whooped for an encore.

Vibrant, refreshingly funny and totally feelgood, this was a big win for the traditional little theatre and great value as a night out.

Christina McIntyre