Such was our last comedy night on 6 November. Personally I was feeling lower than a dachshund's dinkie; having spent weeks in and out of bed (no, it's not what you're thinking). But you, our audience, made it a really special night.
Now, if you're a regular you'll know that Laughter-House nights are always buzzy, but sometimes there's an extra special vibe. Maybe it was partly to do with you guys from Matt Smarts Fitness Boot Camp with all your special energy. Right from the start you seemed especially 'up for it'.
Most of you probably don't know this, but when I book my acts, I do the my best to ensure that every comedian has something different to offer. Each night means carefully blending the talent; ensuring there's something that you, my customers, will love.
Last week we were blessed to have Angela Barnes opening the show. Wasn't she great! Angela's star is on the rise - you might have seen her on Mock the Week - and is clear to see why. She's lovable and witty, with oodles of jokes. You made it plain you thought she was terrific by raising the roof with your applause. She loved it too; she told me she'd come back to Laughter-House "in a heartbeat."
Next on the stage was me. I scuttled up, paler than an anaemic polar bear and in danger of losing my voice. To be honest I could be as funny as a collapsed lung and you'd probably still laugh. Thank you!
You loved Mark Hurman's measured delivery too. It was slower, and a complete contrast to Angela's faster pace, but also very clever and well written.
Your evening ended with the fabulous Jonny Awsum. His reviews describe him as a 'crowd pleaser'. Which of course explains why you were very quickly laughing (and singing) your socks off. You were game too, especially when Jonny coerced 'Bob' into joining in. Bob's animal noises will go down in the Laugher-House hall of fame. Jonny also described us as "Amazing - one of the best gigs going!" That's down to you.
Let's not forget our lovely Phil Dinsdale; a compere you really appreciate. And with good reason; he's so talented. He's capable, warm and funny. He's handy with a pasty too. Ask him.
When I set up Laughter-House in 2007, I dreamed of creating a perfect comedy environment; a club the acts would love as much as you, the audience. Seven years on, you've helped to make us one of the most popular clubs on the circuit, which is why we can bring you the big names you love to see.
Last week Angela Barnes described us as "a club run with love, with a great audience."
Thank you Angela.
And thank you to you too, our special Laughter-House audience; for your enthusiasm, loyalty, and your support of live comedy in Basingstoke.
