East End-based comic David Mills made a decent call when he decided to trade in his regular presence on London’s cabaret scene for a gritty life of stand-up.

But instead of waving goodbye to the flamboyant turns and intimate storytelling of his first calling, the American-born comic incorporated them into his new stint on the city’s comedy circuit and found himself a winning formula.

Now with the prestigious Barbican New Act of the Year award under his belt, the comedian - who calls Wilmot Street, Bethnal Green home - is headlining a much-awaited new show.

Comedy legend Jo Brand will host the extravaganza, at the Shaw Theatre in Euston next month, and it promises to be a pretty eclectic line-up.

For David, it is confirmation that his ambitious punt paid off.

He told the Advertiser: “I found there wasn’t much of a career progression in cabaret. But in comedy there’s a way to move up a ladder; its all set-up.

“You start of with five minutes, then ten, then fifteen. I made the move because I just wanted to gig more.”

With the razzle-dazzle still influencing his every stage move, the comic’s blend of the two has won him sought after recognition.

His unique delivery, always on a stool - a throwback to his cabaret days - has pulled audiences in.

David, who grew up in Los Angeles, added: “My style as a comic is very cabaret. I move into stories. I take a little longer. Because I’d been performing for so long, my worry was about the content and not the stage presence.

“But I find British audiences, particularly in London, very open. I think they like I’m not the same as everyone else.”

And Bethnal Green, where he has lived for the past six years, provides perfect inspiration.

“I love that east London is such a mix and I don’t feel like an outsider. I hate west London. It reminds me of Liz Hurley and white denim.”

Whether it’s the white jeans of the West End or the skinny jeans of the east, London has found a lot to like about him.

Jo Brand with Guests is on at the Shaw Theatre in Euston Road on Saturday November 12 with tickets priced �20/�25.

Call the box office on 0844 248 5075 or go to shaw-theatre.com