By Megan-Josephine Reynolds
The first Tuam After Dark show kicked off in the Mall Theatre on Saturday, 25th September. Organised by comedian Katie Harrington, the comedy show featured two headline acts: American Jim Elliott, a Dublin Laughter Lounge regular, and Irishman Brian Gallagher, just back from a sold-out run at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.
They were supported on the night by three of Ireland’s top comedians: David Gilna, founder of Lightning Comedy and award-winning playwright; Betsy Speer, a Chicago comic who brought her Two Birds One Show act to Edinburgh in 2019; and Galway’s own Breda Larkin who won Show Me the Funny in 2018.
The first headliner, Brian Gallagher, had the audience rapt with stories of his time in Edinburgh. The ups and downs of flat-sharing with roommates whilst in a relationship was explored by Chicago native Betsy Speer. Finally, American comedian and the second headliner, Jim Elliott, shared that his time in Ireland was rubbing off on him as he found himself using Irish slang back home – to the confusion of his American friends and family.
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The event was a huge success, culminating in a huge round of applause for all of the acts. Afterwards, guests were invited to join the comedians in a local bar to discuss the show.
Tuam After Dark is set to be held as a monthly event. Katie, who moved from Dublin home to Galway during the pandemic, said: “Stand-up is something I really missed during lockdown; so, I decided that as soon as restrictions were lifted, I would bring a comedy night to Tuam. You shouldn’t have to go to a city to experience quality comedy.”
More information on the event and the acts that performed can be found on their Instagram page.
