THE BEST OF LLC, Newcastle & Gateshead Comedy Festival

We didn't write a review this week - we didn't have to - it was in the Evening Chronicle.

Best down to earth comedy
Mar 5 2008 by Gary Beckwith, Evening Chronicle

THE Best of Long Live Comedy – The Dog & Parrot, Newcastle

Only a great show could top such a fantastic festival opener on Monday and after watching a brilliant two-hour stand up comedy session, it’s safe to say Long Live Comedy did just that.

The show was low-key, but nonetheless provided a night of down-to-earth comedy – all with only a stage and a microphone.

Compere Al Dawes warmed the crowd up superbly with his witty remarks and interaction with the crowd (including myself) on topics such as employment and relationships. Nothing seemed to faze him and, like a true comedian, he had a quick-witted reply for everything.

First up was young comedian Chris Ramsey and his use of colloquial language during his various sketches elicited large laughs from the crowd.

Following was Sean Mcloughlin, an edgy comedian who performed a dark and explicit routine, which was shocking, but funny.

John Whale then appeared and did a set on everything from posh jumpers to clichéd phrases. He was excellent and really had the crowd in stitches.

Callum Cramb was next and mocked Chavs, commenting on everything from their dialect to their dress sense, which was hilarious.

Carl Hutchinson closed by mocking X-Factor. He was just as eccentric as some actual competitors and had great fun with the crowd during this sketch, who laughed along throughout his entire routine.

Long Live Comedy was fantastic and proved that you don’t have to be famous to be funny.

CHRIS CONWAY