From 2pm there is already a steady stream of people wandering into reception asking where to wait before the show starts. Considering that recording doesn't start until 7.30pm, this shows admirable dedication.
Around 5.30pm audiences are queuing along the road outside the studios. People travel to see this show - one couple made the journey all the way from Newcastle last week - and no one wants to be left out. By 6pm, the queue has been ushered into the marquee erected outside the studios and everyone given a couple of beer tokens each.
It gets steadily more crowded under the sofa-lined canvas and soon the heaters aren't really needed to keep off the February chill. Beers are handed out and the crowd hits just that 'mildly tipsy' level of lubrication that comedy productions look for in audiences.
Studio manager Ray Gearing appears to announce what's going to happen tonight and flag up future shows. The facilities are basic but it's a friendly atmosphere - you'd be hard pushed to notice the discreet security guards and even the ushers fade into the background until they're needed.
The first 100 or so ticket holders are let in and we're shown swiftly into Studio One. There are about 300 people in the audience.
After a brief warm-up and routine from Bobby Bragg and Hill, it takes just over an hour to record the bulk of the 30-minute show, with about 30 minutes of pick-ups at the end. Bragg and Hill skilfully fill the gaps between.
Just past 9pm it's all over and the audience is ushered out. It is all slightly no-frills, but considering the last time I saw Hill play live it cost £20 and I had to pay for my drinks, it definitely ranks as a good night out.
No comments yet