Frank Skinner’s Credit Crunch (2 shows) (as Lee Nelson): Lyric Theatre, London, 2009
Frank Skinner and Friends (as Lee Nelson): Noel Coward Theatre, London, 2012
Always Be Comedy (5 shows): The Tommyfield pub, Kennington, London, 2018
Always Be Comedy Online: Online: 2020
Simon Brodkin performed as Lee Nelson, his cheerful cocky-chav alter ego at two Frank Skinner showcases that I saw in London in 2009 and 2012.
The comic pushed situations as agonisingly far as he possibly could to provoke laughter from an audience. On both occasions that I have seen him live as the character, with his creation’s opinions on religion, nationality, age and the like, Brodkin worked the room with complete confidence, fearlessly involving the audience for much of his material. Nelson has proved to be a very popular character with audiences over the years.
The comedian appeared at Always Be Comedy in February, March, two shows in May and again in November 2018. A work-in-progress at these gigs, he appeared on-stage as himself. Every time, Brodkin was naturally engaging voicing his comic opinions with gusto and as a result I thought he was funnier than his characters he portrays. In November 2018, he was very funny, quick and smart on stage and it has been fascinating watching him perfect his routine over the year.
Brodkin was a guest act for Always Be Comedy Online in June 2020. Appearing as himself, he was assured and confident in his delivery of his views on experiencing and trying to cope with the effects of the worldwide pandemic.