In a reversal of the usual order, Ricky Gervais' work as a stage comedian followed rather than preceded his sitcom career. It is the success of "The Office" and "Extras" that brings us tonight's "Ricky Gervais: Out of England — The Stand-Up Special," taped for HBO before a large and appreciative audience at Madison Square Garden's WaMu Theater. (Does that become the JPMorgan Chase Theater now?)

While Gervais' American live appearances have been rare, he has already mounted three tours in Britain -- Animals, Politics and Fame, in order -- from which he's drawn much of the material for "Out of England." Fame also provides the current stage set, with "Ricky" spelled out Elvis-style in lights -- through which he emerges crowned and robed to a fanfare of pyrotechnics -- and a lectern that provides a place to keep the can of ale/ lager/beer/whatever to which he returns for refreshment throughout the hour.

By ROBERT LLOYD, Television Critic