Although we often praise The Stand Comedy Club in Edinburgh we have tended not to go at the weekends unless it is a one off special but for a works night out Fridays or Saturdays are ideal.  On Friday 14^th December 2007 the place was packed out with several groups of rather well oiled punters determined to have a good Christmas Do!

Possible nightmare for any comedian, but not for the four acts and definitely not for host Susan Calman. Susan has settled into her own unique presentation style and still manages to surprise us with totally new aspects. Although diminutive, exactly the same height as Superstar Kylie Minogue, she also has her stage presence and the ability to gather up a rather rowdy audience, whip us into a frenzy then settle us down for each act.  I look forward to seeing Susan do a set of her own, hopefully soon.

Firstly Sully O’Sullivan, although new to me Geoff saw him as part of the AAA stand-up in the Fringe and noted his impressive performance. This Kiwi is rather cute and has an interesting angle utilising the differences in language, how one simple word in several predominantly supposedly English-speaking countries can cause controversy. He had most of us almost doubled up with laughter. He seems very comfortable on stage and able to assess his audience very easily.  He is definitely worth looking out for in the future.

Derek Johnston opened the second section. Having seen Derek before, we noted he has relaxed a little in his stage presence, but still starts off looking uncomfortable until he settles into his stride. He also almost seems to shake in front of us, which he will either have to try to get rid of or somehow accentuate it and work it more into his act. His comedy has several possible ways of developing further and we look forward to seeing him again.

Closing the middle section Glaswegian Kevin Bridges has been a favourite of ours since we first saw him almost 2 years ago, not long after he started. In this time not only has he aged, his comedy, confidence and stage presence have also matured. We noted the first time we saw him he has great potential and so far he has proven us correct. He just seems to be blooming under the spotlights and perfectly at home in front of crowds. His presentation and comedy timing are so natural several senior comedians on the circuit could learn a few lessons from this young man. If there is any justice Kevin deserves to follow fellow Glaswegian Billy Connolly to international recognition.

The headliner for the night, Brendan Burke, had some line-up to follow. This could be seen as a disadvantage in that he had quality acts to follow, or as in this case accept the thorough warming up of the audience and go with it. Brendan has appeared on TV in ‘Father Ted’ but as this is not a show I have ever seen my first exposure to him was at The Stand last year. I was not entirely impressed last time but thoroughly enjoyed his set on this occasion. As Geoff has said in the past someone seems to have forced most Irish comedians to kiss ‘The Blarney’ and I could actually see what he meant this time. I absolutely love his descriptions of his pet dog and cat and their interactions. I now look forward to getting the chance to see him again.

This was a superb line-up and we thank ‘The Stand Comedy Club’ for setting it up.  Despite the crowds and high spirits of the audience the staff at the stand cope superbly, there were no incidents, people were served swiftly and those of us that ordered food had delicious meals.  We probably won’t be back to see you in 2007, but look forward to coming back in 2008.

Merry Christmas and Happy and Prosperous New Year from one4review. 

For further information and to see what is on check out www.thestand.co.uk or you could always become a member and get discounts and early warnings on special events in the future it is equivalent to only £1 a month, see www.thestand.co.uk for further details.