By William Cook
In 1979 the Comedy Store opened above a strip joint in Soho. It heralded a new kind of comedy, and kickstarted the careers of comics such as French & Saunders, Ben Elton and Rik Mayall. More than twenty years on, the venue may have changed twice, but the club remains as popular as ever. A gig at the Store is still the biggest break a new stand-up can get.
With brand-new interviews from a host of comedians, and unique access to the Store, William Cook tells the fascinating and often hilarious story of this remarkable club. Clive Anderson and Alexei Sayle recall the chaos and excitement of the very first night. Nick Hancock and Jo Brand describe the backstage banter and onstage buzz of the Leicester Square venue. And newly minted stars such as Richard Blackwood talk about where comedy is heading.
The result is a unique insight into the world of the modern British stand-up. What's it like to 'die' on stage? How does it feel to do your very first open spot? What's it like backstage? What makes a great compere? How do you deal with hecklers? What's it like to come back once you're famous? What's it like to follow Robin Williams? The Comedy Store finds out from comics such as David Baddiel, Rhona Cameron, Julian Clary, Alan Davies, Jack Dee, Jenny Eclair, Jeff Green, John Hegley, Lee Hurst, Eddie Izzard, Phill Jupitus, Mark Lamarr, Alistair McGowan and score more.
Their stories are in turn hilarious, revealing, rude and poignant: just like modern comedy itself.
Price includes postage & packing within the UK.
