COMEDIAN, SPEAKER, MC, PIANIST
Kev Orkian is widely recognised as one of the UK’s most exciting stars in comedy. A gifted pianist, singer, and actor, he has earned international acclaim as one of the finest comedy pianists in the world.
Kev’s musical journey began at the age of four, when he first started playing the piano. Music came naturally to him — by the age of 12, he had already composed original pieces, and by 15 he had completed all eight piano grades, along with earning a Performer’s Diploma in Music. That same year, after performing in numerous competitions and concerts, Kev decided to pursue formal training in the performing arts at Brunel University, where he graduated with a National Diploma in Performing Arts and Music in 1994.
As a classically trained concert pianist, Kev toured with a range of orchestras and played in some of the world’s most prestigious venues, including the Sydney Opera House. But while classical music was his foundation, Kev felt the pull of theatre and comedy — and soon returned to the stage. He made his West End debut in 1996 in Fame at the Victoria Palace Theatre, which opened the door to more roles in major productions such as Me & My Girl (1996–1997), Grease (concert tour, 1998), Buddy Holly (concert tour, 1998), Happy Days (1998–2000), and Boogie Nights (2001–2004).
Despite his growing success in theatre, Kev never abandoned the piano. In his spare time, he began developing musical comedy routines, inspired by legends like Victor Borge and Dudley Moore — to whom he is often compared. It wasn’t until 2004, however, that he realised this could be a full act. A lucky break came when a performer dropped out of the Comedy Bonanza Show in Blackpool. Kev stepped in with his new material — and his stand-up comedy career was born.
Since then, Kev’s comedic talent has gone from strength to strength. He has opened for top British entertainers such as Jim Davidson, Julian Clary, Cannon & Ball, and Joe Pasquale. Between 2004 and 2009, he made a name for himself on the international cruise circuit with his “Stow Away” act, performing up to 30 cruises in some years across the Caribbean, North America, Europe, and the Middle East — earning rave reviews from leading cruise lines.
Today, Kev tours the globe with his dynamic one-man show, blending laugh-out-loud stand-up with dazzling piano performances — many of which feature his own compositions. In 2009, he made a strong debut on the UK comedy circuit with performances at London’s Comedy Store and the Jongleurs comedy clubs, frequently earning standing ovations and glowing reviews. In August 2010, Kev will take his “Illegal Tour” to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, making his debut appearance at the Underbelly venue.
