Chris Ramsey’s Comedy Hotspots With Swiftcover

Last week, I was lucky enough to be invited to a special comedy event, presented by Chris Ramsey in collaboration with Swiftcover. Here’s what I thought about the show.

The idea and campaign behind the #Swiftgigs – which took place at different comedy hotspots around the UK – was to get people enjoying comedy and exploring the UK’s comedy hotspots. It was revealed that over half the nation (54%) have not been to see a live stand-up show in the past year, and 68% could not name a favourite UK comedy club when asked.

I was certainly part of this percentage. I’ve always liked comedy, but have never been a massive fan because I feel I don’t know anywhere decent to watch live comedy, nor am I clued up on comedians in general!

I also have a very specific/oddball sense of humour – I’m a huge fan of The Mighty Boosh which, although has a cult following, is kind of like marmite – you either love it or hate it. So with my strange sense of humour, the only comedians I’ve really liked a lot have been those like Noel Fielding (obviously), Russell Brand, Russel Howard and, of course, Chris Ramsey.

I love Chris Ramsey in particular because he’s from South Shields which is my happy place!

So of course by the time Wednesday rolled around, I was very much looking forward to it. I met up with my two friends, Briony and Becky, in London and together we headed to the Hippodrome Casino.

I’d never been to the Hippodrome Casino before. But I was amazed when I stepped inside – it’s so glam, with floors made out of coins and luxurious lighting.

Chris Ramsey’s Comedy Show

Upon arrival, we were sent upstairs for a brief pre-party. Here we could mingle with other guests, gorge on free sweets, take selfies with a Chris Ramsey cardboard cut out, and sip on free cocktails – including the specially made delicious Swiftini.

This part was nice because it gave us 45 minutes or so to mingle and chat with other guests. It was nice to sit down and kick back with a drink. I also chatted with new people and caught up with my friends after my stressful journey into London.

The theatre was lovely. It was so intimate, with tables and chairs clustered around a stage. With there only being 180 seats, it was actually really nice. We sat right at the front and I know with comedy it’s not the same as a play for example, but it was actually really nice.

Steve Hall acted as the MC for the night, introducing each comedian on stage and he was really funny. Although his ‘performances’ were shorter, he made us laugh and I loved the props/photos he used.

The first act was Ahir Shar, who was funny but not necessarily my type of humour. I found him funny and very talented. I liked how his comedy actually touched on more real subjects but in a humorous way.

Chris Ramsey himself was absolutely hilarious and had me in stitches the whole time. I just adore him. He’s so funny (and good-looking too, if I do say so myself). I loved how he drew from his own life experiences – where he is now married with a baby – and had me laughing so much! I mean, it’s not something I can relate to personally. But somehow he still managed to make me laugh my ass off. Which I suppose is a sign of a really good comedian!

By the time the night ended, we had all drunk the free bar dry (oops), and me and my friends left the venue on a high. I really wish we’d had the time to stay and play in the casino. It was really glam and just seemed like such a fun night out. I love the idea of going to see a show and then enjoying the slots afterwards!

I’d definitely love to return for a night out there. In all honesty, it has got me more interested in theatre again. I watch stand-up on TV from time to time. But I think I’ll now be keeping an eye out for any acts at the Hippodrome because I’d love another night out there soon.

Thanks so much for the invite and the fab night Swiftcover!

Are you a fan of comedy? Let me know!

Disclaimer: This review is based on my personal experience with a product/service that was provided to me free of charge. Despite the complimentary nature of this experience, all opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own and I am under no obligation to share a review.