Comedy review: Monkey Business at the Sir Richard Steele

Popular comedy night deserves its reputation for top laughs

The Monkey Business Comedy Club has played host to some of the biggest names in UK comedy since it launched in 2004, including Stephen Merchant, Harry Hill and Rory Bremner.

So successful has it been that it has expanded to a second venue, the Oxford, in Kentish Town, and now runs three events every week.

But we went to the club’s original and spiritual home - The Sir Richard Steele in Haverstock Hill.

A bumper crowd packed into the upstairs room, with a large hen party – notable for their bunny ears – helping to create a lively atmosphere.

First up was Sol Bernstein, the world’s oldest Jewish comedian. His robust act pulled no punches, mocking both the audience and himself to hilarious effect.

Then came Tom Adams with a selection of whimsical, charming comedy songs, one of which, the Meat Thief, I have been singing ever since.

After the break, was newcomer Jimmy Bird, who showed promise, but needs to polish his delivery up.

Carly Smallman, on the other hand, was the finished article with funny songs with quality banter in between.

After a brief cameo from magician Stu Turner, headline act Stephen Grant showed why he is in demand from Brighton to Bombay with a masterful performance that had the crowd in stitches.

With six acts of stand-up, music and magic, the night had something for everyone and was great value for money.

The Monkey Business Comedy Club clearly deserves its reputation as one of the finest laugh-emporiums in the capital.

* Monkey Business is at the Sir Richard Steele in Haverstock Hill, NW3, on Saturday nights and at the Oxford in Kentish Town Road, NW5, on Thursday and Saturday nights.