Comedy

Ricky's bad day at the office

Alice Jones: For a man who admits he is 'one false move away from Jim Davidson', his latest schtick is either career suicide – or PR genius.

Inside Comedy

Corny comedians are laughing all the way to the bank

Wednesday, 19 October 2011

Comic actors lose all credibility when they star in unfunny ads, says Ben Walsh

The Horne Section, Criterion Theatre, London (Rated 3/ 5 )

Wednesday, 19 October 2011

The chocolate-box charm of the Criterion Theatre seems a good fit for the sweet allure of the Horne Section and their latest season of jazz-comedy fusion. Furthermore, the lightbulbs that adorn the proscenium arch give the group's set the requisite cabaret vibe. It's a vibe that stand-up Alex Horne propagates with the show's opening number, "Roll Up", that playfully warns "no matter what you think of us you won't be reimbursed."

A comic's guide to the art of handling hecklers

Friday, 14 October 2011

A new book celebrates the tradition of stand-ups' put-downs. Adam Sherwin learns from the masters.

Brighton Comedy Festival Gala, Brighton Dome (Rated 3/ 5 )

Thursday, 13 October 2011

For 10 years now, the Brighton Comedy Festival has provided a welcome hub for the latest comedy shows, many of which have been hits at the preceding Edinburgh Fringe. The opening-night charity gala has, meanwhile, principally relied on special turns from big beasts [represented by the Off the Kerb agency], such as Lee Evans, Michael McIntyre and Alan Carr, to make waves.

No funny business: Jongleurs seeks serious investors for float

Wednesday, 12 October 2011

Jongleurs has plans for 30 UK franchises, a growth in its internet TV and expansion overseas

Comics...it's the way they sell 'em

Sunday, 9 October 2011

A dire childhood and years of failure are good for sales, when professional jokers relate their life stories

Canada ban upsets Russell Brand

Monday, 3 October 2011

Officials refused to allow Russell Brand into Canada on Saturday for a stand-up show. Brand, barred by Japan in May over his convictions for criminal damage and indecent exposure, complained: "We must abolish the borders between our nations and our minds."