Oh What a Night!

Harry Hill and more at the Comedy Festival

Ealing and comedy have long been synonymous, and so a tent in Walpole Park was the natural venue for a night of top class entertainment.

This sell-out show was supposed to feature Sean Lock, but to the dismay of many Mr Lock didn't appear. In his place was 'special guest' Harry Hill.

Bounding onto the stage in his characteristic shirt and suit, Hill reminded me of a wound up toy that had just been released. The first five minutes can best be described as totally hyper.

If you don't know Mr Hill's show 'TV Burp' ( and a fair few didn't) you would have been positively baffled by his performance.

Funny? Not really, and judging by the expressions of those around many seemed to agree.

No worries though as were all soon laughing again thanks to MC Rufus Hound - what a star!

He had us on side from the word go, providing a continual stream of stories and jokes with references to Ealing, Hounslow and Acton.

Meeting him outside and chatting briefly in the interval confirmed that he has a natural and sharp wit.

MCs are a vital link warming up the crowd between each guest, Hound did a great job. Go and see him if you get the chance.

I have watched Paul Zerdin perform once before and thought he was fantastic then. My friends have never seen him and were amazed.  Zerdin, a ventriloquist, does a great show making you believe his 'doll' is real.

He has an exceptional talent at throwing his voice and is a very funny act.

Last up was Stephen K Amos, an immensely likeable bloke who had the benefit of performing to an audience nicely relaxed. He provided us with plenty of laughs.

Never shirking from controversy Amos told about his time in Australia and the racism he encountered. It could have sounded bitter but he has too much charm for that.

His intelligent humour was a great end to a great night.

The Ealing Comedy festival ends tonight - my advice is catch it whilst you can.

Annemarie Flanagan

July 24, 2009