Canadian Tom Stade is used to being under fire on stage. Like all stand-up comics, he quickly deflects the hecklers, but the comedian also knows what it is like to really be under fire from an enemy.

Tom travelled to Iraq to entertain the troops and found himself in the firing line.

He also played to appreciative soldiers in the bitter cold of the Falkland Islands, but on Friday, April 17, at 8pm, he will be heading for Swindon’s Arts Centre, as part of his UK tour.

Tom showcased his new show Decisions Decisions at the Assembly Rooms during the Edinburgh Festival and he is hoping his Swindon audience will decide it’s a good laugh too.

Along with performing, Tom is also a comedy writer for television and is working on several original ideas including an online sitcom with Daniel Sloss, intriguingly entitled M.U.F.F.

He is no stranger to acting, as he starred in the critically acclaimed Canadian sitcom The Newsroom, and the award-winning feature film My Own Private Oshawa.

He was also co-writer and co-star of Frankie Boyle’s Channel 4 series Tramadol Nights. He has recently performed for the second time on BBC 1’s Live At The Apollo, and performed to his largest live audience to date in Channel 4’s Comedy Gala at London’s 02 Arena.

He has appeared on Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow, Lee Mack’s All Star Cast, BBC 3’s Edinburgh Comedy Fest Live and Channel 4’s The Boyle Variety Performance.

He has guested twice on Channel 4’s Stand-Up for the Week, and was given an extended set on Dave’s One Night Stand.

Tom is a hardworking comedian and has toured the UK every year with a new show and is renowned for his story-telling style, his charm and quality satire.

Tickets to see the free-thinking philosopher, as he ponders timeless questions and reflects upon life’s choices and decisions, are £17.

They are available from the Old Town theatre’s box office on 01793 524481. Or see www.swindontheatres.co.uk.

– Flicky Harrison