Tim Powell launched Comedy Mash Folkestone back in 2016 at Bar Invicta, he recalls the night as ‘special’. It was his debut as Master of Ceremonies and he relied on friends and family to fill the audience and hopefully fill the room with laughter…
That they certainly did and Comedy Mash Nights have gone from strength to strength and become a regular event in the social calendar of this part of the world ever since.
Comedy Mash Nights is no longer tethered to one location, it roams venues along the Kentish coast and Tim is delighted to be back onstage and bringing top names in comedy to this part of the world. After a torrid time with COVID, Comedy Mash at The Tower Theatre re-launched in early November 2021, with legend of The Comedy Store Mike Gunn headlining. As well as launching the new night at Eleto Cafe Folkestone, with three packed sold out shows in 2021 (October, November) and January 2022. It’s a great new night that is already proving popular with an “up for it regular crowd”.
CommunityAd had the joy of speaking to Tim, who when asked for a particular highlight of the events he’s brought to town, he graciously answered “At Comedy Mash we’ve always supported new/up and coming acts. One of the best things is to put acts on the bill who you know are going places. We’ve had acts perform at Comedy Mash then go on to win awards, appear on TV and support comedy heavyweights on tour”.
From your first gig in 2016 a lot has changed in the world; how has the stand-up comedy scene changed in that time?
I would say that between 2016 to 2020 it was a great time to put on comedy. Audiences were generally up for a great live experience and willing to support live comedy. Obviously, the pandemic put a stop to the vast majority of live gigs. However, online gigs became a thing and generally got better throughout. Since things have reopened audiences are re-gaining their confidence at coming out and experiencing comedy live. It feels like it’s heading back in the right direction again. With the planned further easing of restrictions in March 2022 this should continue further.
As a stand-up, what’s the funniest thing about this part of the world?
Best way to talk about this is by thinking about the local audiences. I personally like the audiences in the Folkestone area. But they are sometimes hard to impress. If they don’t like one of your jokes, they let you know! By not reacting at all! On the flip side, if they like your stuff they can be the best ever! They love a good local reference too.
Why is it so important that comedy clubs such as this exist for the good of industry and the local community?
Live comedy, like live theatre or music, is so different to watching it on TV. Being there, having a unique, never to be repeated evening is special. Funny things happen in the room, with an audience member, with a joke that goes wrong… any number of things can happen! Watching comedy is also good for you. Laughing releases endorphins which boosts your mood.
We also hope to enrich the local arts scene and therefore add something for the local community.
Why is it so important that locals support these live events now more than ever?
The arts industry as a whole took a massive hit in the pandemic. Venues, promoters and performers all took a hit! Now we are back and we want to give you the best nights of entertainment that we can. That are memorable, enjoyable and keep you coming back.
Any dates for readers’ diaries?
Eleto Cafe Folkestone – 23rd April, 18th June. Tickets via Eventbrite search ‘Comedy Mash’ at £8.50
Tower Theatre Folkestone – 21st May (Andy Askins), 10th September (Andrew Maxwell), 26th November (Felicity Ward). Tickets £16 early bird or £18 thereafter.
I’d like to thank anyone who’s ever come to a Comedy Mash Night. Your support and your laughter are always appreciated. If you haven’t been before, we’d love to welcome you along.