University News Last updated 04 December
New York jazz clubs and late-night TV studios combine in RBC’s A Laugh Supreme
A Laugh Supreme sees two fabulous artistic comedians, Simon Munnery and Chelsea Birkby join up with top-ranking jazz musicians from Royal Birmingham Conservatoire in the relaxed surroundings of Birmingham’s only purpose-built jazz club. The new series revives a popular format in the 60s and 70s, where music and comedy regularly shared the stage.
Headlining the opening show is multi-award-winning comedian Simon Munnery, who is at the intersection of art and comedy. He’s been described by Stewart Lee as “One of the ALL TIME great Stand Ups”. Chelsea Birkby’s 2022 Edinburgh had glowing reviews and transferred to a sell-out run at Soho Theatre–she’s since graced Radio 4, 5Live and more and has written for Mock The Week.
Alex Milner, curator and compere of A Laugh Supreme, says, “When I saw the space, it was immediately clear to me that it would work as beautifully for comedy as it does for jazz. We’re recreating a vibe that’s somewhere between the archetypal smoky New York club and a late-night TV studio show.”
We spoke to him to find out what to expect from the comedy night launch:
“I love hosting, and the chance to bring a comedy and jazz crowd together shouldn't be difficult - there's a natural crossover!
“When you host, the aim is to make it feel like a conversation (dressed up as a monologue!), so reacting, listening and bringing the room with you is the main job. The fact it doesn't always go to plan is the risk, but even then, the unexpected interactions can often make the night special.”
Have you worked with Simon or Chelsea before?
“I'm lucky enough to have worked with Chelsea a number of times, and she is, without doubt, as good a comedian as there is on the circuit. She's so warm, so smart and at times so brilliantly silly.
“Simon is, for many comedians, a benchmark performer. It's the first time I'll be working with him, and we couldn't be happier that he's part of the launch night. His style suits the more freeform elements of great jazz, so he's a perfect headliner in many ways.”
How will the jazz interludes add to the night's vibe?
“I think it's going to make it really special. We didn't want to do a standard format, and the blend will give that extra dynamic - all live performance is uplifting, and the craft of both forms will complement perfectly, and I think it will create a real energy in the room. The room will play its part, too - I think it will feel like a classic late-night TV show, as the space has that feel.”
A Laugh Supreme launches Fri 6 Dec, music from 6.45pm and comedy from 7.30pm.