Waterlooville comedian James Alderson brings lockdown comedy nights into people's homes

James Alderson, 45, has been unable to take his comedy show round the country due to the cornavirus pandemic. Not to be beaten, he now hosts a daily satire comedy night via Facebook.

The comedian believes being able to laugh is vital to get through the current situation and maintain positive mental wellbeing.

‘I’m often told I go a bit too far and make a joke about everything,' said James. ‘While this is obviously a very serious situation it’s vital to maintain a good sense of humour during difficult times – if you didn’t laugh you would cry.’

Cheers, as James has named the show, has taken him away from his traditional stand-up routine to more of an interactive comedy discussion in which he says the audience have also ‘helped to cheer me up’ with some of their anecdotal stories.

‘We’re all cooped up in the same four walls with the same people,’ he said. ‘Inevitably people have some really funny stories about current everyday events whether it’s going to the supermarket or dealing with the kids working from home. The audience all chip in and I’ll respond to their comments.

‘It’s a chance for people to come together with a humorous take on the current situation.’

With daily viewing figures of between 500 and 1,500 people, the venture is proving to be a hit with people ‘looking to lighten the mood’.

One poster commented:’‘You are a star. That was a funny evening. Loved it.’

Another simply stated: ‘Brilliant funny night Mr Alderson.’

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James started posting the comedy nights just before the start of lockdown and has now hosted nearly 50 shows

He said: ‘To be honest, it has helped me as it has given me a focus since I’ve had to stop touring.’

The shows take place between 8.30pm and 9.05pm. To watch or take part, go to James’s Facebook page at http://m.facebook.com/pg/comedyjames/posts/?ref=page_internal&mt_nav=0

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