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In May 1979, Don Ward opened The Comedy Store above a strip club in Soho. Inspired by a trip to see comedy clubs in the US, the aim was to re-create the same success in London. Adverts were placed in The Stage, Punch and the Evening Standard for 'would-be comedians' and anyone who 'phoned or turned up was allowed to perform on stage (for as long as the audience allowed). Acts were introduced by a compere who, guided by the audience's reaction, used a gong to let comedians know when it was time for them to step aside and make room for the next act. At the end of 1982, The Comedy Store moved to - and operated on an ad-hoc basis for two years from - 28 Leicester Square. During this time the new talent that emerged included Clive Anderson, Chris Barrie, Paul Merton and Ben Elton. During the late eighties The Comedy Store became the first - and is still the only - full-time Comedy venue in the UK, offering the very best in Stand-Up comedy, improvisation, and, from 1990 when The Cutting Edge team was formed, the best in topical satire. During this time The Comedy Store attracted visiting American comedians such as Will Durst, Mike Myers, Greg Proops, Ruby Wax, Emo Phillips, Dennis Leary and Robin Williams at the same time as acting as a breeding ground for the next generation of young comedians including Arthur Smith, Julian Clary, Harry Enfield, Rob Newman, David Baddiel, Jack Dee, Mark Lamarr, Eddie Izzard, Tony Slattery, Steve Coogan, Jo Brand, Lee Evans, Sean Hughes, Frank Skinner and Lee Hurst. In 1993, due to its increased popularity, The Comedy Store was forced to find a new home and moved again to larger premises at 1a Oxendon Street, between Piccadilly Circus and Leicester Square. With seating for 400 people the opening gala night in 1993 saw some of the Store's favourite performers, including Paul Merton, Jack Dee and Eddie Izzard, usher in a new era. The Store is still universally popular to this day, regularly featured on Paramount Comedy Channel. Landmarc are proud to have secured a weekly contract to host The Comedy Store in Bournemouth, and have seen famous screen stars and upcoming comedians perform to rapturous applause week in, week out. A great night out to be had, with a casual meal and some drinks to fuel your comedic fire. If easily offended please stay away. 
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