Stand up comedy at The Harlington brought the house down - Review of opening night.

I wasn't the only one reduced to uncontrollable guffaws with tears flowing down my face at the Harlington's launch of Stand Up for Saturday Comedy, this weekend.

Tickets for the opening night of the new monthly comedy club at the Fleet entertainment venue had sold out in a matter of days and the expectant 200-strong audience was baying for some serious laughter.

And they got it, with bells on.

First night teething problems with the speed of the licensed bar and meal service (food was lovely though) were quickly forgotten with the standard and variety of the acts taking to the stage.

First up was Jon Richardson – you'll know him as a regular panellist on the Channel 4 TV show  8 Out of 10 Cats – who started well with his brand of dour humorous observations but fell a little flat as his set wore on. Still good though.

Next on was George Egg, who took the proceedings sideways wildly brandishing an oversized briefcase containing a battery of ridiculous props in a totally Tommy Cooperesque performance. It was a surreal and wonderful mixture of alternative stand-up comedy and music hall variety – and he brought the house down.

Leaving the best until last was the multi-talented Simon Evans (also a TV comedy writer) who in suit and tie, holding a glass of whisky, grinning ear to ear looks more like a MP or barrister. Aloof, sardonic, acidic, sharp-witted observations and jokes – all delivered in clipped Received Pronunciation – left you fighting for breath between the laughter. Make-up streamed down your face (if you were wearing it, of course). He was truly wonderful.

Compere holding all this madness and mirth together was BAFTA nominee Matt Rudge who expertly warmed up the audience and engaged with us armed with his own style of infectious humour.

The next Stand Up for Saturday Comedy Club is on October 29th. Tickets cost £10 in advance or £12 on the door (subject to availability). You can upgrade your ticket to include a pre-show dinner.

For more details visit The Harlington's website