Last week I saw a fantastic line-up of comedians in support of the charity Women and Children First the Leicester Square Theatre in central London.
The organisation focuses on empowering rural communities in developing countries to take action on the global health challenges presenting women and children. They facilitate and fund projects that reduce mortality rates surrounding childbirth, having enabled communities to save the lives of more than 6,500 women, children and young people so far.
One of the best things about the night was how awesome it was to see so many women comedians at the top of their game and we’re super proud that they’ve all been a part of Funny Women at some point in their comedy careers.
The boys on the bill did a great job too! Mark Watson kicking things off in his funny roundabout way, loved Iain Stirling going into detail about what Hacker T Dog was supposed to do if the Queen died while they were live on air – probably showing my age with that comment! – and the Chase’s Paul Sinha was definitely a treat.
The evening was hosted by the charming Vix Leyton, who did brilliantly, a safe pair of hands to guide you through the both the charity and comedy parts seamlessly. You can’t help but smile whenever she’s on stage as her effervescent presence radiates throughout the show.
Esther Manito had a dynamic delivery as she stormed through her charged act-outs with great finesse. As an audience member I revelled in her relatable rage at the #notallmen and MPs that really shouldn’t be coming third in the jungle. Lots of straight up facts.
Rosie Jones was an absolute joy; she truly is a genius with her comic timing, and had the audience entirely in the palm of her hand. She brought the festive cheer to the show in her iconic style.
The second half hit the ground running with Chloe Petts who gleefully played with gendered stereotypes and her audience in equal measure.
Katie Green performed with a confident ease, instantly winning her audience over. Her razor-sharp wit and subversive humour led us to unexpected places. She presented a refreshing perspective as she balanced juxtaposing act-outs and observations with her Salvadorian roots and British experiences.
Ria Lina burst onto the stage in a post-divorce rampage which was delightful to witness. She was the comedian perhaps most on theme with the night as she delved into the horrors of childbirth, getting the audience to strap in as she took us from joke to joke – a complete home run.
Closing the show was Sophie Duker who delivered a fantastic headline set. A master of playing with her audience and in complete control of the room (poor Ed – check out the recording on Next Up Comedy to see what I mean). Duker was the cherry on top of a great night of comedy for a brilliant cause.
To find out more about Women and Children First click here.
Watch the show on demand here – proceeds going to the charity.
To donate to Women and Children First click here.
