AMERICAN comedian Rich Hall gave Belfast comedy fans a treat by performing a 20-minute set at an open mic night.
The Perrier Comedy Award Winner took to the stage at the Pavilion Bar on the Ormeau Road and manager Michael Lavery said Hall had arrived unannounced.
“He just turned up and asked in the public bar if the comedy night was on,” he said.
“He was the first to arrive and stayed all night. He was very down to earth and took the time to take lots of selfies and photos with fans."
Promoter Dave Gray, who runs the Pavilion’s comedy club with Luke McGibbon, described the American comedian’s performance at the weekly open mic night as a “very pleasant surprise.”
According to Mr Gray, Hall was in Belfast to record a comedy panel show for the BBC. He said that he was advised to check out the Pavilion’s comedy night by Lurgan comedian Micky Bartlett.
“He showed up an hour before the doors opened and asked if he could perform,” Mr Gray said.
“We weren't about to say no, so he said he would nip back to his hotel for his guitar.”
Mr Gray said that he made jokes about Belfast and Northern Ireland during his 20-minute act, as well as practising new material and playing songs.
When he finished his set, Hall said that he had really enjoyed himself and asked if he could return to the event.
Mr Gray said Hall's performance was the "icing on the cake" for what he believes is the "best comedy club in Belfast".
All of the proceeds from the event are given to charity. The club is currently raising money for the Welcome Organisation.
The comedian had just finished several shows at the Vodafone Comedy Carnival in Galway, but has not announced any upcoming Belfast shows.
Hall is most famous for his appearances on UK panel shows like QI and Have I Got News For You.
He was also the inspiration for bartender Moe on The Simpsons, according to the show's creator Matt Groening.
The open mic comedy night at the Pavilion is held every Monday from 8.30pm until 11.30pm.
So last night we had a fantastic night. Rich Hall done a little 20 minute set and blew the roof off the Pavilion. You just never know who will be on, be sure to come next week! Posted by Monday Night Comedy at the Pavilion Bar on Tuesday, September 29, 2015
