Julian Clary sashayed on to the stage wearing an outfit he described as a cross between "Kylie Minogue and a herbaceous border".

Well, there were certainly plenty of flowers on his corset and thigh-high boots - the first of many outrageous costumes he donned as the glamorous host of the second Best Of The Fest show.

Clothing was also an issue for the first act of the night, Sean Lock, who apologised for his casual jeans and polo shirt, explaining he had apparently lost his suit trousers while walking across Brighton.

Julian had already warmed up the welcoming crowd with camp innuendo and double entendre (and a flirtation with Dave, a Dome security guard).

Sean picked up the pace with a meandering tour through his imagination, touching on subjects such as the nature of "atmosphere" and the negativity of British attitudes - humour which is funny because it's true, even if you have never really thought about it.

Julian reappeared (this time in a stripy velvet suit) to introduce Brighton-based comic and magician Paul Zenon.

The highlight of his act was a trick involving a pint of beer, a snooker triangle and a dog leash. He had instructed the audience to "set your faces to stunned" but did not really need to as the crowd were left wondering how on Earth he had managed it.

His blend of tricks and tongue-in-cheek humour was a contrast to the next act, Jason Wood, a camp impressionist/vocalist with an impressive voice.

Uncanny renditions of Alison Moyet's Is This Love and Rise by Gabrielle followed, Wood showing the versatility of his vocals with a performance of Nessun Dorma.

Dave Fulton is an American comic with lots to say about English people - especially about how much they drink.

It was mostly complimentary, with ironic observations on a multitude of subjects from tattoos to politics.

Highlight of the evening was Australian Adam Hills, a man who seemed extremely at home on stage and had a great rapport with his audience. Beginning by making his apologies for Aussie crocodile hunter Steve Irwin, he went on to discuss the absurdities of Eighties music.

Julian wrapped up the show in musical and sartorial style, his piece de resistance being a blue and gold sequinned jumpsuit with tassels. Well, he was off on a date after the show.

Review by Melanie Dowding, features@theargus.co.uk