Another Good Night

Last evening we attended a a performance of Variety Lives, compered by Arthur Smith. I've always wanted to see him live, and having done so, it only reinforces my opinion that he is one of the funniest men around. His introductions only came slightly unstuck when he attempted a Knock, Knock joke. In response to the Knock, Knock opening line, there came a very loud "Hello" from a lady in the audience. This brought Arthur to something of a half and he declared that this was the first time that he had ever encountered such a response and admitted that it put him distinctly off his stride. He then declared that it was a splendid response and he would use it himself from now on in an attempt to unsettle his fellow comedians.

A conversation followed with the lady who had derailed the joke and it turned out she was Italian. Arthur recited the only bit of Italian he knew and asked the lady to translate it. "Oh No, it's far too rude" was her reply. Big laughs all round.

Also on the bit were Ruby and Noah, (and her voice is amazing), Luke Wright an extraordinary performance poet, and Hattie Hayridge, who is best known for her performances as Holly in Red Dwarf.

I certainly came away with a big smile.