after laughter
It may involve a risk but London offers plenty of Comedy rewards worth reaping, says Tom Brett
Much like a comedian, a comedy entertainment hub will sink or swim on its reputation. An emphasis on food can make you feel like you’re in a restaurant with someone talking in the background; a dedicated focus on comedy can leave you desperate for a drink when the atmosphere starts to sink.
While pubs offering comedy won’t match theatres hosting established names, a smaller venue can be a gem of undiscovered wit. Venues such as the The Bedford in Balham — home to south London stalwart Banana Cabaret — deliver crisp, clean fun at reasonable prices, while The Laughing Horse in Camden, held at the Crown & Goose on Arlington Road, has a full gastropub menu available at every show.
Good comedy nights also require energetic hosts to keep the audience on the edge of their seats, so always check websites and pre-book any event with an established compere to avoid disappointment. The acts that follow will be typically hit-or-miss, but some genuinely funny moments are almost guaranteed.
And if you have the nerve to take on the comedy role yourself, there are plenty of open mic nights in the city for you to have a go yourself. Wednesday is ‘New Act’ night at the Comedy Cafe in Shoreditch, where eight aspiring comedians are given a platform to show off their potential alongside an established stand-up. As with all open mic and newcomers nights, big laughs aren’t always guaranteed so entrance tends to be free.www.bananacabaret.co.uk
Although Nelson's Column in Trafalgar Square is one of London's most famous landmarks, few people know of Nelson's "Spare Nose". This pink nose can be found just off the square under one of the road arches of Admiralty Arch, but you have to look hard to find it.
