Mike McCartney: Sex, Drugs & Rock ‘n’ Roll (I Wish!) at the Ambassador’s Theatre

Mr and Mrs McCartney must have been very proud parents having such multi-talented sons. Mike, the younger and lesser known of the McCartney boys, opens up his scrapbook for an intimate night of nostalgia and laughter. A rare glimpse into the teenage years of the most famous band on earth from someone who had a first class seat for the wild ride.

Photographer, comedian, musician, and more recently children’s author, McCartney has done it all. Now he is touring the country with his snaps from the past and his infectious cheeky smile, covering 70 years of fun, music and the joys of having a rather famous brother.

The show gets off to a crawling start as McCartney talks the audience through a collection of childhood photos in great detail: memories of being stuck watching grandpa’s family slideshow spring to mind, only with several musical icons thrown in. Although a very likable, earnest host, the show lacks pace and structure, with some stories resembling the rambling musings of that nice old guy from down the pub. However, the speeches are peppered with fond memories of teenage Paul, John and George that seem so genuine and intimate that he holds the room’s attention. The whole night is a fantastic insight into the early years of Beatlemania, which is sure to thrill hardcore fans.

The second half gets much better, as Mike showcases some rare photos of his famous friends, his early music videos and other cherished memories. Although it’s clear to see he’s had his fair share of wild times, some of the reflections are hardly what you expect from the brother of a world-class rock star during the swinging 60s. At times the stories are too tame and the jokes a little twee – the show could do with an injection of grimy rock ‘n’ roll antics.

It’s obvious that Mike McCartney is still adored by his die-hard fans, but this charming chatterbox may agitate those with a lesser knowledge of the “good old days”.

Violet Myers

Sex, Drugs & Rock ‘n’ Roll (I Wish!) tours the UK until 13^th June 2014. For further information or to book visit Mike McCartney’s website here.