No surprises but plenty of laughs
THEATRE - SMILES' HO-HO CLUB
King's Head Theatre
PEOPLE who like football don’t go to the theatre.
True or false, it was this pearl of wisdom that prompted playwright Roy Smiles to abandon his work on the state of soccer and resurrect his manuscript about something much closer to home and much more painful – his experience of the comedy circuit.
Inspired by his experiences as a failed comic, the production illustrates the jealousies, banter, private conversations and musings of old pros thrown together backstage.
Although most of the drama takes place backstage, where we learn of the breakdown of a marriage, an affair, and the trials and tribulations of the circuit, the play is interspersed with stand-up performances from consummate professional Dave Harper (Roger Kitter), singing faux-gay cowboy Tony Watts (Stephen Dean) and crude Northern lass Linda Walsh, (former Coronation Street barmaid Sally Lindsay).
Kitter’s take-no-prisoners old-school gags waged war on political correctness as he targeted Essex girls, the Pope, Islam and illegal immigrants, and had the audience in fits and probably disbelief as he gave a truly authentic performance as the comedy club’s compere.
But it was Katie-Jo Howman, the daughter of Ho-ho club director and Brush Strokes star Karl Howman, who struck a chord with the celebrity audience, which included Ray Winstone, Barbara Windsor and Paul O’Grady.
Howman played aspiring young comedienne Debbie Thomas, taking her place in the open spot for the first time in her life, following a barrage of backstage advice from the old pros.
Her confidence isn’t helped by Kitter asking as she walks on stage: “Any last requests, cigarette? Blindfold?”
The tortuous silence as she dies on stage is truly terrifying – and the main talking point after the show.
It’s easy to believe the Ho-ho Club is a realistic portrayal of backstage comedy clubs nationwide and gives a pleasant night out and food for thought but don’t expect any surprises and you won’t be disappointed.
Until Nov 5
020 7226 1916
Click here to book tickets
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