The Late Show kicked off with its usual sense of excitement and anticipation this week, but the audience was in for a very special surprise.
Saturday’s mystery performer was none other than Romesh Ranganathan, one of the UK’s most popular comedians. Dave Fensom, the evening’s MC, announced the best-selling comic’s arrival to the thunderous applause of delighted fans.
Although used to appearing in front of thousands, Ranganathan performed to a socially distanced crowd of just 160, who were absolutely thrilled to hear his new material. Covering topics from the undeniable sex appeal of Idris Elba, to his children (“everyone’s got a sh*t one”), the comic and TV personality’s brutal dry wit left the crowd in hysterics.
Despite following such a big name, comedians Mark Simmons (Mock the Week) and Ben Pope (Comedy Central’s Achievement Unlocked) were well received by the audience, keeping the laugh rate high with a barrage of quick, clever quips.
The Electric Arcade held its fair share of surprises this weekend, with award-winning comedian Tez Ilyas appearing at the venue’s weekly stand-up show, “Laughable”. Ilyas has previously found success with his sell-out show Tez Talks, which was commissioned for three series on BBC Radio 4. The intimate venue certainly gave him a warm welcome, lapping up his uproarious new routine with bountiful enthusiasm.
With plenty of stand-up performances planned for the remaining weeks, keep an eye out for more mystery guests. You never know who might turn up...