Gavin Webster

Written by: Si Hawkins
Published: Friday 13th December 2024

It was the first of times, it was the worst of times. And now it's Christmas time, where in our world of plenty we can spread a smile of joy, put our arms around the world and put on some pretty unique seasonal shows. Newcastle's favourite stand-up Gavin Webster has put a whole band together, in fact, for a one-off gig on the 22nd. There's no need to be afraid.

"Gavin Webster and The Fathas of Convention is an excuse to play all of the comedy songs that I've written and performed on the comedy circuit, some from over 30 years ago, right through to the songs I've written this month," he explains.

"I thought it would be great to do it with a band with a silly name and thought The Stand in Newcastle would be a great place to do it. The band consists of Duncan Oakley on guitar and percussion who is a legend of the comedy circuit and a brilliant musical comedian in his own right, Albie Crompton who is a terrific original young musician and is our keyboard player, and Devon Webster (my daughter!) who is our bassist."

Well, Christmas is all about family. Lovely stuff. And how has Webster's 2024 been, generally?

"2024 has been busy, another intense but rewarding Edinburgh run which became a tour show that I've not long finished, and then to end the year this, the birth of The Fathas."

And you can't beat a festive birth, right Jesus? Right now though, let's head back to Christmas past.

The first Christmas - and Christmas present - you remember?

I don't know, 1973-74 maybe? I remember having a bag with presents in it. My bag was nearest the telly in the corner and my sister's was in the middle of the room.

I remember getting a couple of kiddy type 45 rpm records, like nursery rhymes and stuff, but being jealous of my sister for getting I Love You Love Me Love by Gary Glitter. It's funny how future events change your retrospective views!

The worst present you ever received - or gave?

I once gave my missus a pan for Christmas. It was a good pan but I was told that buying stuff like a pan for your other half isn't very thoughtful or romantic.

Your most memorable Xmas gig?

Getting food thrown at me at The Cosmic Club in Hammersmith about 25 years ago. Funnily enough I was the one who got [called] wrong after the show by the club manager - and my agent - for saying something derogatory to the audience after they did it.

Favourite Christmas song?

I Wish it Could be Christmas Every Day - Wizzard. It's one of the first ones I remember and it's such an uplifting record. Also the little kids on it are about my age.

And your least favourite Christmas song?

That Pogues and Kirsty MacColl one and George Michael [of Wham!], Last Christmas. We seem to get told that they're the best Christmas songs by experts and that there's no argument.

Your weirdest festive experience?

I'm desperately trying to think. My sister-in-law taking all her decorations down on Christmas Day night. I wouldn't care, [but] she had young kids at the time and had the house decked out like it was one of them ones connected to the national grid.

The crappest New Year's Eve?

There's been a few! An early one staying in when I was about 15 because I'd not been invited to any parties and I watched Nik Kershaw and Big Country do New Year shows on telly. There's been a few miserable ones in my early twenties when I was hanging around with the wrong crowd.

Your favourite festive place, ever?

It's got to be Scotland, especially at New Year.

Any plans for 2025?

Oh yes. My podcast Bazookaaah will hopefully go from strength to strength, I'll be doing the Edinburgh Fringe again and I've got a big show at the Tyne Theatre on 21st November next year. On a personal note, I hope to be healthy and happy and I have a plan to watch every film I've always wanted to see but never got round to.

Gavin Webster and the Fathas of Convention are at The Stand, Newcastle on 22 December. Tickets