Big names in Gilded Balloon benefit

Top-name comics including Alistair McGowan, Bill Bailey and Jo Brand have promised to take part in a huge benefit to help rebuild the Gilded Balloon, destroyed in Edinburgh's devastating blaze.

And more stars are lining up to take part in the Gutted gig to help the venue where many started their career.

Phil Kay, Ross Noble, Daniel Kitson and Rich Hall, are among those who have offered their services to the benefit, to take place in London's Piccadilly Theatre on January 19.

Club director Karen Koren said she was "gobsmacked" at the idea.

She said: "I think it is lovely that people do know we did a lot of stuff. I can hardly believe that all these people have come forward to do something for me. "

And of the loss of her much-loved venue, she said: "I am still struggling to come to terms with it. But I have a lot to do.

"I have got some really lovely staff and I just hope we can make it happen again. I really want to have an all year round base that functions not just in the festival but all year round."

"I'm very touched and honoured that this is happening for the Gilded Balloon but its should be remembered that other artists lost their livelihood too, so an appeal fund is being set up to ensure that they survive too"

The benefit is being organised by Mick Bateman, manager of the London Comedy Festival and a former general manager of the Gilded Balloon.

He said: " It's been a huge shock to everyone that has had a long acquaintance with the place. What matters now is make sure the Gilded Balloon survives and continues to make its unique contribution to the life of the Fringe. The massive support received from performers and others involved in the show is testament to the affection in which the Gilded Balloon is held by many".

Tickets go on sale this weekend from 020 7369 1734.

Published: 11 Dec 2002