Comedy (Stand-Up) A stand-up comedian is someone that performs in comedy clubs, usually reciting a fast paced succession of amusing stories, short jokes and one-liners, typically called a monologue. Some stand-up comedians use props, music, or magic tricks in their acts. Stand-up comedy is perhaps the easiest field of entertainment for new talent to enter, because many smaller venues hold "open mic" events where the inexperienced can perform comedy before a live audience. However, perhaps more than any other performer, the stand-up comedian is at the mercy of the audience, which is an integral element of the act. A truly adept stand-up comedian must nimbly play off the mood and tastes of any particular audience, and adjust his or her routine accordingly. The test of a master stand-up comedian is the ability to not only face down a "heckler," but win over and entertain the rest of the crowd with a retort. Many of the all-time greats are featured below. Right: Steven Wright
Join the celebrity-filled audience and watch the unexpurgated and now legendary performance of Billy Connolly. Including all the bits they didn't show... Read more
"...And may I say what an honour it is for you to have me". Sit back and enjoy as Kenneth Williams takes a witty and enthralling look at his career in... Read more
Although appearing in over 100 film and television productions, Peter Ustinov is best remembered for his portrayal of Hercule Poirot in 6 Agatha Chris... Read more
The incomparable Victoria Wood is the star of this special show that won two 1989 British Academy Film and Television Arts Awards. Before a celebrity... Read more
Kevin Smith started out making movies in any spare moment he could find, patching together his cult hit 'Clerks' while the store he worked at (and fil... Read more
Off the wall and unglued like you've never seen him before! The inspired lunacy of Robin Williams is captured live in concert on his home turf - The G... Read more
Andrew Dice Clay's controversial stand-up act has lead to a career of notoriety. There appear to be no depths to which Clay isn't prepared to sink, of... Read more
Prepare to take a ride through Arj's world, where absurdity and logic meet, as he unleashes his unique, intelligent world-class stand-up comedy. Dishi... Read more
Austen Tayshus is the stage name for controversial Aussie comic, Sandy Gutman, best known for a comedy single he released in 1983, 'Australiana'. He... Read more
Ben Elton, the multi award winning writer, performer and comic is back on stage after ten years with his new un-cut live show and time has definitely... Read more