A night of comedy rooted in real-life storytelling is arriving at The Glitch Theatre in Waterloo.
Tall Tales and Cocktails has just celebrated its fourth birthday and is marking the occasion with a move to Waterloo. A “tall tale” refers to exaggerated or unbelievable stories – and that’s exactly what audiences can expect at each show.
The concept was founded by comedian Steve Mayne, who wanted to take a different approach to stand-up, and the evening features little to no audience participation. “No one will be asked what their name is or what they do for a living,” he said. “It’s all about the stories being told.”
Steve, who grew up in East London, says the idea was inspired by his childhood memories of sitting in pub back rooms, listening to the “crazy stories” adults would share.
Drawing on his experience as a comic, he turned that inspiration into a long-running comedy night. Each event features four different acts, including some well-known names from the industry, and has consistently received five-star reviews.
The event is hosted by Steve but the names of the acts are not traditionally shared until just before the event. “We have had some huge comics like Mark Thomas and Red Richardson,” Steve said. “We don’t share the line-up as we want people to come for the storytelling experience, rather than just the names.”
“I miss when people would go to the bar to talk to people,” Steve explained. “This night is all about bringing the community together through storytelling- celebrating people’s similarities rather than highlighting their differences.”
After a successful residency at The Rosemary Branch Theatre in Islington, the well-loved event is heading south to Lower Marsh’s Glitch Theatre from 28 March for a three-month run.
Tickets cost £10.50 or £8 concessions, available from www.theglitch.london/events
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The Glitch Theatre, 134 Lower Marsh, SE1 7AE
