An anarchist, transvestite and heavy metal loving comedian is rocking into Redhill writes Sophia Sleigh.

The unusual comic talent of Andrew O’Neill is coming to the Harlequin Theatre in February as part of his national tour, Alternative.

The funny long-haired man will perform a short play about gravy; tell tales of hitchhiking to gigs, living rent-free and practicing black magic.

The 32-year-old vegan says some of his stories are based on his real life experiences but most of his inspiration comes from the recesses of his unconscious mind.

He said: “My shows are like a patchwork quilt of different styles. When I was a kid I couldn’t decide what I liked. I do a lot of metal and rock festivals but I appeal to comedy fans; I’m an all rounder. Some bits are massively offensive; some bits are silly and some of its political. I consider myself an alternative comic; I am a metal-head and the show is about having an alternative view of life. I think the best comics are those with an outsider’s point of view. I prefer people who make me think and challenge the way I think.”

Since his Edinburgh Fringe run in 2009 Mr O’Neill has made a guest appearance on Stewart Lee’s Comedy Vehicle, hijacked the Radio One Rock Show, and satirised on Radio 5 Live.

After a decade of stand-up Mr O’Neill says he can see himself doing it for the rest of his live.

“I consider myself an alternative comic; I am a metal-head and my show is about having an alternative view of life."

He says the highlights of his career are performing in front of 5,500 people at Sonisphere music festival at Knebworth and taking his humour abroad to Copenhagen, Luxembourg and Australia.

He promises to make the people of Sutton laugh, open their mind and inform them on how to choose the right skirt to wear at a heavy metal gig.

Andrew O’Neill - Alternative; Harlequin Theatre; Warwick Quadrant; Redhill; Friday, February 10; 8pm; £12; Call 01737 276 500 or visit harlequintheatre.co.uk.