September 01st, 2021

A dear friend shared this video (well a clip from this video) on Facebook, and it was literally like going back in time for me. Watching it now in September 2021, I'm acutely aware of what a special place the Tyne Theatre was (and still is). 

Chirpy Chappies Comedy Café was on a Friday night in the Bistro of the Tyne - it was founded by Dave Johns (who actually gave me my first paid gig in the "business"). The license meant alcohol could only be served with a meal - and so massive pots of chilli con carné or broth were made up every Friday!

​Davey succeeded in bringing many of the top acts from the circuit to Newcastle. Just look at the (now) household names who were on show - and how YOUNG they all look.