Review: Comedy at the Jazz Café at the Madejski complex, Reading, Wednesday, January 20

Alan Bunce • Published 1 Feb 2010 14:00 0 Comments

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APART from the occasional football match there has long been very little to attract the Reading public to the Madejski Stadium on a cold Wednesday night.

Now though, the previously missed opportunity that is the Jazz Café wants people in more frequently and the monthly Comedy Club is one of many new attractions.

Last time, Karen Bayley compered, introducing Paul Pirie and Tony Gerrard.

Paul Pirie, an angry looking Scot with some good material, was enjoyable while Tony Gerrard, a real Mr Angry, offended almost everyone he could - but he went down a storm. His harsh brand of un-PC comedy was in stark contrast to mainstream acts.

Wheelchair-bound Tony made constant jokes against many disabilities, which poses an interesting debate - what are the ethics around a disabled man making fun of blind people? You could argue his disability legitimised us laughing at his jokes, but perhaps not all audiences would be comfortable.

Notices in restaurants saying "No dogs except guide dogs" were one target.

"The dogs can't read them," he said, "and nor can their owners".

He liked the disabled facilities at football grounds. "It's good at Tottenham," he said. "You're near the half way line. You can get a game second half."

An entry fee of £10 made for a cheap night and food at £4.50 wasn't bad. A decent relaxed comedy club with parking and, to be fair, a very nice venue. Well worth a visit on a cold Wednesday night.

The next Comedy Club is on Wednesday, February 24.

See www.thejazzcafe.co.uk

This article appeared in Reading Chronicle 28 Jan 10

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