If Chris Stokes invites you to sit down and listen to him tell stories about his life for an hour, just do it. It might well make you a better person. An introspective and thoughtful comedian who looks about 12 but has a wisdom far beyond his years, Stokes has been divorced, suffered a mental breakdown and is a strict vegan. What could be funny about that?

Turns out quite a bit, as Stokes retells his more traumatic anecdotes in a conversational style that puts everyone at ease. His self-effacing insight and emotional candour make for an authentic connection that is so welcoming it softens the audience up for some fantastic, well thought-out jokes that invite reflection.

Stokes is a wonderful storyteller. His observations on his divorce are good but anyone that can talk at length about a baby seagull on a canal or the daily challenges of a charity shop volunteer while keeping a laughing crowd on the edge of their seats is gifted indeed. This is a solid hour of great stand-up that, like everything in Chris Stokes’ life, can surely only get better with time.

Pleasance Courtyard, 556 6550, until 30 Aug, 10.45pm, £7.50–£9.50 (£6.50–£8.50).