THE World of Comedy is returning to the Thwaites Empire Theatre, Blackburn, next week, giving members of the public to try their hand at stand-up.

Following a sell-out show in April, organiser Junaid Musa, is bringing the event back and hopes it will become a regular date on the calendar.

“The reaction we got to the first show was tremendous,” said Junaid, who also acts as compere. “To sell out was beyond our expectations and the feedback we got meant we just had to do another one.”

Headliner Jim Bayes will be returning and also on the bill will be Blackburn-based stand-up Lewis Costello.

“We will also be bringing back the comedy roulette wheel and inviting members of the audience to come up on stage and tell a joke.

“They can then spin the wheel to win a special prize. It was hilarious last time and is already an integral part of the night.”

Other established comedians are to be added to the line-up and the night will have an open mic slot for would-be stand-ups. Anyone interested in giving comedy a go can contact Junaid on JMin3D@yahoo.com.

“There are a lot of good comedians in the area and World of Comedy is a showcase for their talent,” said Junaid. “We just want to create a regular night which people know they will enjoy and, although this will only be our second, we have already booked a third date at the theatre for November.”

World of Comedy will be held in the bar area of the Thwaites Theatre.

“I’m really hoping that people come along and support us and that we can make this a regular event,” said Junaid.

n Tickets, priced £5, are available from the box office on 01254 685500.