Spectral Intercourse in Wolverhampton: Clinton Baptiste proves he’s still comedy’s favourite medium
I’m getting the word… side‑splitting.
I laughed uncontrollably at Clinton Baptiste and his support act Barry from Watford. I never saw that coming.
As a Phoenix Nights and minty biscuits fan, I trusted I was going to like the show, but the reality turned out even better.
Namaste, shalamah and shakattack. Clinton Baptiste is one of our most famous mediums, clairvoyants and psychics. As part of his Spectral Intercourse Tour, he visited University of Wolverhampton at The Halls.
From the minute he opened with his trademark “y’alright” in his weird, squeaky, cartoon‑like voice, I hardly stopped laughing. Humour was blunt at times but never cruel, and interaction with audience members was masterful. He clearly knows Wolverhampton too, leaving the stage with a triumphant “Wolves ay we” and name‑checking local influencer Dazzlin’ Dave.
Clinton is the creation of comedian and actor Alex Lowe, who describes him as “a slightly camp, end‑of‑the‑pier clairvoyant medium and psychic giving unsubtle, undiplomatic readings from beyond the grave. You can see the cogs working, but that’s what makes him loveable in a ghastly way.”
Although Clinton appeared in Peter Kay’s Phoenix Nights for barely three minutes, Lowe has created an enduring universe around him through hit podcasts, radio appearances, viral clips and sell‑out tours. The character’s history, quirks and spirit‑world nonsense have gained momentum through years of live performance grafting.
My evening at The Halls showed why. Clinton’s improvisation is razor‑sharp. His voice, as it jumps messily to increasingly high‑pitched squawks just as Barry’s speech turns frenzied, is a sound to behold.
Lowe’s own career is as eclectic as Clinton’s spirit guides. A child actor, he grew up on film sets, later appearing in Much Ado About Nothing, Brassic, Cold Feet, This Time With Alan Partridge and more. But despite glamorous early roles, including six weeks in a Tuscan villa filming with Brian Blessed, he says touring as Clinton remains the biggest thrill of his life. It shows.
And then there’s Barry from Watford, another of Lowe’s brilliantly observed characters and a cult favourite thanks to years on Steve Wright’s Radio 2 show and an unforgettable call‑in to Iain Lee. I must have listened 20 times and still rave about it to friends. His outrageously funny stand‑up is fast‑paced with an occasional well‑placed expletive.
Together on the same bill, the pair delivered a riotous night. Clinton may be a spoof medium, but the connection he fosters is real. Laughter rolled in big waves. My partner, who’d never heard of Clinton or Barry, closed his eyes, laughing and gently shaking his head at the ridiculousness of it all.
Timing was immaculate, like watching a master craftsman at work, one who’s equally at home in what he affectionately called “a warehouse with seats” as he would be in Brian Potter’s working men’s club.
Clinton Baptiste’s Spectral Intercourse Tour continues across the UK and Ireland, with dates now extended into 2027 (yes demand was unforeseen.)