10 Tips For An Uproarious Night Out
Published: 4 July, 2011
Whether you're there for business or pleasure, when you're in London you'll want to take a night off and experience the city for yourself. If you're planning a night out for a group and are worried about catering to everybody's needs, comedy is the perfect way to do so. Here is a list of 10 tips to bear in mind to ensure that you plan an uproarious night out.
1. Know your audience. If you're planning a work night out which will involve a particularly rigid boss, they might not find it appropriate to attend a show involving nudity, even if it's presented in a 'classy' way; like a burlesque show, for example. Though it might be fun to watch them squirm (or come out of their shell a bit), remember you'll be answerable the next day and could save yourself some embarrassment by asking for opinions and advice beforehand.
2. Be picky about which friends you decide to bring. London comedy is better than ever, and nothing would spoil your night more than bringing people who don't get along. Choose a group of your closest friends and take them to a comedy club where the wine is flowing; that way, you can't go wrong.
3. For something a bit different, attend a gong show. In these, up-and-coming comedians take it in turns to wow the crowd with their routine, usually for a few minutes at a time. The twist is that the crowd decides when they've had enough, and the performer must end their set when they hear the gong. There are gong shows throughout London, and these can be a great way to hear some fresh comedy.
4. To make the most of your evening, look for one of Londons comedy dinner shows. This is a great way of hearing some hilarious comedy while enjoying a delicious meal; just be careful you don't choke!
5. There is a certain charm in the free comedy shows that take place around London. Not only are you getting a free show, but many of them offer the microphone to beginners at the end of the night; this can be a great way to discover new comedy gems, or alternatively give it a whirl yourself.
6. Know your comedian. Some comedians love to be heckled, some don't. If you're egging a comedian on, don't be surprised if they ignore you or are even rude in return. Alternatively, some comedians base part of their routine on audience interaction, so don't miss out on the chance to be part of the act.
7. Be open-minded: some of the best nights might come from unexpected places. London offers many guided walks and while some of them are based on horror, many are interlaced with comedy and can be great for having a giggle with your friends.
8. Don't feel obliged to go for bigger, more popular shows. Sometimes smaller performances by lesser-known comedians can feel more intimate and be just as hilarious.
9. If you have time to go for a drink afterwards, do it in the comedy clubs bar. The show will be a great talking point among your friends, and staying in the clubs bar is a great way to thank them for the show you've just seen, meaning you don't have to find a new bar. If you're lucky, you might run into the comedian and have the chance to buy them a drink!
10. Most importantly, be ready for fun. Don't go in a bad mood; you need to be open to a good time or you won't feel like laughing, no matter how talented the comedian.
If you're sampling Londons comedy scene, you're in for a treat. Sit back, relax and have a drink; just make sure you cross your legs when the show starts!