Maitland Comedy Club is back with show number 57 and it’s bringing Footy Show larrakin Mick Meredith to headline the show.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The show will be held on April 28 at Maitland Leagues Club with Umit Bali, Michele Betts, Isaac Butterfield and Jack Tideswell supporting.
Search for Maitland Comedy Club online at stickytickets.com.au for tickets.
Last year the club celebrated its 50th show. It’s founder and driving force John “JB” Buck spoke to Fairfax Media about the history of what began as a passion project.
The club started in as a way to fill in time before football season kicked off and JB said he couldn’t believe it was still expanding two-and-a-half years on.
“The network and the name has spread,” he said.
“I’m stoked.”
Online it amassed a cult following which now exceeds 3000 fans. To call it an overnight sensation brushes over the thousands of hours JB has sunk into the club as its only promoter or permanent staff member.
But he’ll tell you, he really had no choice.
I tried to start a fat blokes pole dancing class. Only mum bought tickets though, and she ran off with the support act.
- John "JB" Buck
“I’m driven, I’m a bit OCD,” he said.
“I used to ride a bike, 500 kilometres a week.
“Clearly not anymore.”
He said there are nights he doesn’t sleep, he’s dabbled in everything from poetry to postie bikes but comedy has brought the most balance to his life.
And he clearly embraces it, refusing to go too far into a conversation without testing the limits of his audience’s funny bones or beliefs.
“I tried to start a fat blokes pole dancing class,” he said.
“Only mum bought tickets though, and she ran off with the support act.”
With his mind always going he said most people would be surprised he doesn’t think too far ahead.
“What’s the future after show number 50?” he said.
“Show 51, then show 52.”
Now it’s up to 57.
The crowning jewels in the Comedy Club’s history, according to JB, are the 18 charity shows the club has been enlisted to emcee.
“Hand on heart,” he said.
“People allowed us into their lives and for a moment we can help them.
“I believe you’re only here once, there is no practice game.