I had a singular and simple wish for Omid Djalili’s new stand-up tour — that he would exhibit some material outside the over-worked topic of his Iranian culture. This wish was not entirely unfulfilled, yet not altogether granted.

The stage was warmed by Boothby Graffoe and his guitar, both of which were well received (although the Oxford audience did not take overly well to the singalong climax).

Omid begins, as expected, by amplifying his ethnicity through impressions and regurgitating tales of his cultural upbringing. Although this is old ground, it is still very enjoyable.

His insights into the divides between English and foreign cultures have become inveterate in his stand-up and will no doubt be a feature in his future work. He credits England’s reluctance to be influenced by the French Revolution to the general consensus of “it’s a good idea but it’s French . . . it will never work.”

The subject of the evening does take a welcome diversion from the vein of ethnicity to a more domestic and personal tone. Omid cheerily reveals his flaws as a husband and astutely illustrates some humorous scenarios in his marriage, including his wife and friends “passing around rescue remedies like a shisha pipe”.

Djalili offers his unique thoughts on contemporary global affairs; a perfect chance for the multi-cultural comedian to exercise his knack for toying with the boundaries of political correctness.

There is a palpable affection towards Omid in the New Theatre, even when he pulls out the old tricks of the Nigerian accent and his renowned belly-dancing. His self-deprecating and childish mannerisms compel you to laugh, despite their predictability (could have done without the confetti though!).

This was an undoubtedly fun performance from a fantastic performer I hope to see climb further out of his niche in the future.