Chris Henry plays it for laughs at Glasgow comedy festival

Jan 27 2010 by Judith Tonner, Airdrie & Coatbridge

A COATBRIDGE man will be playing it for laughs when he takes to the stage at the forthcoming Magners Glasgow International Comedy Festival.

Chris Henry is appearing in his own show along with a mystery special guest at the annual event following his successful solo debut at last summer’s Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

The 31-year-old observational comedian also reached the final of last year’s Scottish Comedian of the Year awards, with his wide-ranging routine which includes entertaining memories of his childhood and family life in Whifflet.

Chris, who began performing on the stand-up circuit in 2003, said: “Last year was my best in comedy to date and I’m keen to make 2010 even bigger, so I’m really looking forward to the Glasgow festival.

“I love talking about Glasgow, where I’m now based, and growing up in Coatbridge. I bring out the funny side of material close to home, and people recognise what you’re talking about.

“My style is energetic, swaying towards the cruder side of my mind from time to time, but it’s all done with charm which makes audiences laugh and allows me to get away with murder!

“I get a real kick from being on stage, making people smile and taking them on a journey, and also from putting my thoughts on paper and performing.”

After leaving Columba High in Coatbridge, Chris went on to become one of the famous Butlins redcoats, and also worked as an entertainments manager with holiday firm Thomas Cook.

Knowing he wanted to continue entertaining people, he began performing open spots in comedy nights and has worked his way up to his own shows.

Chris, who works in recruitment, said: “I built up a reputation, travelling and performing around the country, and I had lots of support from my friends and family, including my friend Paul McCluskey, who helped me write some material.

“I worked my way up from open spots to compering and headlining gigs at lots of different venues. I love playing at the Stand, as it’s always a great audience and atmosphere.

“The Edinburgh festival was the most nerve-wracking experience ever – I had to do all the promotion as well as having the pressure of writing and performing a full hour of material.

“Being part of the Fringe was a brilliant experience. I even got a five-star review and I thoroughly enjoyed the whole thing.

“I’m building my career in the right direction and I’d eventually love to be doing this permanently and be out on road all the time.”

Chris will be performing at Capitol on Sauchiehall Street at 8pm on Saturday, March 20.

Tickets cost £6 from www.ticketsoup.com. Visit www.chris-henry.com for more information.