NI photographer swaps camera for stand-up mic as he launches new comedy club
Aaron Butler is set to headline the Cabaret Comedy Club's first show
An award-winning Belfast photographer is stepping out of his comfort zone as he launches a new comedy club night.
Wedding photographer Brendan Gallagher has always been a fan of comedy and has dipped his toes into the thriving local scene.
Wanting to bring together up-and-coming acts like himself and some of the bigger names in the industry under one roof, he has started Cabaret Comedy Club.
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Launching on April 30 at the Cabaret Supper Club, the event is hoping to be the 'boldest new comedy night' - offering the audience a stand-up and meal experience in the heart of the city centre.
Speaking to Belfast Live, Brendan said it was after he ran into AMPM and Cabaret Supper Club owner Eamon McCusker that his visions of a new club became a reality.
Brendan said: "I had this idea a few months ago to create a night that brought up-and-coming comedians and well-established names together as there is amazing talent on both parts of the scene.
"Another comedy night in Belfast city is both a win for hospitality as it's another night for city centre trade and another night for the comedians to get some great stage time in one of the best venues in the city.
"Cabaret Supper Club was made for giving shows in the city, but it was missing a comedy night in a scene that is absolutely buzzing."
The launch night will host eight local comedians in a "unique format" with a main course served in style with five rapid-fire acts doing five minutes each to warm up the room.
After a short break, they will be followed by two bigger support acts performing for 10 minutes before headliner Aaron Butler will "bring the room down" with a 30 minute set.
Brendan will be hosting the first event and is excited to launch something new for the city to enjoy.
He continued: "Comedy and humour is an important part of being human and even in today's difficult world, economically and politically, comedy can shine a bright light on trying not to take life too seriously.
"Comedy saves many lives as it lifts spirits and see the world in a different way."
To find out more about the show or get tickets, see here
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