The Stand hosts a live-streamed gig to beat coronavirus lockdown

The Stand is to host a free live-streamed show from one of its comedy clubs this weekend, headlined by Phill Jupitus.

Bosses say the aim is to ‘bring some much-needed laughter’ to everyone trapped at home to stop the spread of the pandemic – but they will also be seeking donations, since a long period of closure will jeopardise its future and the jobs of its staff.

Its venues in Glasgow, Edinburgh and Newcastle are closed to the public until April 13 – but from 8.30m on Saturday it will stage a show in the Scottish capital with no audience, other than the cameras live-streaming the gig to the web.

Also on the bill are Mark Nelson, Vladimir McTavish, Ryan Cullen and  Jo Caulfield.

A spokesman said: ‘While there won’t be an audience in the venue for obvious safety reasons, we hope to bring some much-needed laughter to all those people who can’t come and see live comedy in a club setting. 

‘The live stream is free to watch and there will be a function where people can comment live. 

‘There is an optional donate button for anyone willing and able to help us generate some revenue to help us through this difficult time. 

‘We intend to lighten the mood of the country whilst securing the future for our staff and acts and to ensure our loyal customers have venues to come back to once the situation improves.’

The club is also encouraging customers to buy gift vouchers, memberships or tickets for future shows in a bid to keep it afloat during the lockdown.

The gig will be available on the Stand website.

Published: 20 Mar 2020