ANTHONY Theophanous realised his dream on August 12 when he opened Redditch’s first-ever comedy club.
‘Fat Theo’s Comedy Club’ in Matchborough attracted a packed crowd to see English Comedian of the Year Rob Mulholland, finalist Lindsey Santoro and Live at the Apollo’s Scott Bennett.
Anthony, also known as MC Fat Theo, described the process of getting the club open as ‘fairly financially taxing’ but managed to make his dream a reality with the help of friends and family.
He has always been a huge comedy fan, travelling the country to watch big-name stars such as Kevin Hart, Frankie Boyle, and Chris Rock.
He suffered a brain haemorrhage that left him unable to work and suffering with amnesia, and as part of his rehabilitation, staff at Moor Green brain injury unit suggested he tried activities that would help him to rebuild pathways in his brain.
While searching, Anthony came across the Ultra Comedy course on social media.
He has spent three years as an independent promoter, bringing shows to pubs and social clubs across the Midlands and developing connections with some of the biggest names on the UK comedy circuit.
The lifelong comedy fan set about creating his new club as an affordable way for people in Redditch to watch world-class comedy shows every week without having to travel to Birmingham.
And online reviews have been overwhelmingly positive with five star ratings of the opening night pouring in.
Anthony said: “This entire process has been a joy, it’s been a real labour of love for me.
“Friday night went amazingly, it was a truly magical occasion that brought this once unused space to life.”
