`It has thrown up some off-the-wall nonsense, some strange attempts at humour and, surprisingly, some decent jokes...'
In the snug of The Kings Arms a quirky group of fledgling comedians and seasoned performers get together to try out material. Hosted by comedy scene stalwart Dave Turquoise, The Worst Comedy Night in Salford provides a nice introduction to the world of stand-up comedy.
Dave started performing in the late 80's at The Britons' Protection at a now defunct event called The Worst Comedy Night in Manchester. A couple of years ago, he decided to resurrect the unthreatening brand right here in Salford. I decided to call in...
There are a handful of regulars and they are warm and welcoming. Even after I tell them that I'm just here to write an article, they still offer me a slot, 'Just tell a story; you won't be the worst on', they inform. There is a genuine inviting feel that will attract any potential performer. At a time when comedy is becoming slick and corporate, this event invites interested amateurs to simply, have a go. Labelled as The Worst Comedy Night in Salford; the pressure is minimal, at best.
Dave asks if anyone wants to take part in a quick question and answer exercise about their own lives. He asks participants to make up their replies and he enjoys the back and forth of the silliness. With a brief warm-up done, Dave starts proceedings in an irreverent manner, 'Right, the sooner we start, the sooner we finish'.
Strangely, one of the acts takes this as a cue to don a balaclava and then place his glasses over the top. He is one of five acts and chooses to stay in character, albeit quite a sinister one. An interesting aspect about the evening is the work-shopping of jokes. Richard Probert is first up, and conveys the majority of his set in a very conversational manner. 'I haven't got a punch line for this bit yet', he confesses. This starts the group musing on possible conclusions to the anecdote. Except Balaclava Man who keeps his eerie, enigmatic silence.
The informal attitude continues with Tom Lawrinson. His section includes some near the knuckle material on seducing a teacher. He pauses, 'Would changing the ages in this make it funnier?' he asks. This is the catalyst for a surreal debate on a dark subject. Once this has concluded, he continues in a sharp and confident manner and has some nice thoughts on being an 'anti-sexist'.
A key aspect of the evening is when the jokes don't work. The gathering all groan when an obvious conclusion is arrived at. Dave and co have their heads in their hands and chuckle when things don't go to plan. It's all quite friendly, and constructive advice is never far away when requested.
There is a short break and I take the opportunity to learn a little more about the group. There are a couple of regulars that have been on a stand-up course recently and one punter promises he'll do some material, but maybe next time. Still, nothing much is murmured from under the balaclava. Regardless, Dave hands out free cakes to all present.
A newcomer to the crew is Andy Webb, he is well-rehearsed and his timing is spot on. A highlight from his set focuses on defecating into a carrier bag immediately before a date. Later on, Tony Baxter uses a ukulele for a parody of Status Quo. In another segment he asks if his Australian accent is convincing. Balaclava Man selects this opportunity to break his vow of silence, 'Sounded South African to me', he muses.
With the final act over, The Worst Comedy Night in Salford has done its job. Dave wraps up proceedings for the evening with some off-the-cuff interaction with the performers. It's been an odd and mostly ramshackle evening, but one I'll definitely visit again.
It has thrown up some off-the-wall nonsense, some strange attempts at humour and, surprisingly, some decent jokes. More importantly, it's been warm, inclusive and a bloody good laugh. The Worst Comedy Night in Salford is a great evening that isn't overtly stylised or in any way intimidating. If you are looking to have a go at stand-up, I couldn't think of anywhere better.
The Worst Comedy Night in Salford is every other Tuesday
Next event: Tuesday 11th October 8:30pm
The Kings Arms, Bloom Street
Entrance is by food bank donation
For more details see The Worst Comedy Night in Salford Facebook page - click here
Words by Ian Leslie
Main photo Tom Lawrinson by Dave Turquoise
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