I'm quoted in this arcticle about the Stand coming to Newcastle, read it here: http://www.gigglebeats.co.uk/2011/04/stand-and-deliver/

Here is the full interview that was conducted by Gigglebeats fuhrer Andrew Dipper.  I don't have his permission to publish it here but, what's he going to do. review me?   Ooooh! I'm reallllly scared...

Is The Stand a good club to play? If so, why? Do you enjoy playing the club?
 
In my limited experience, The Stand is phenomenal.  Firstly, the rooms in both Edinburgh and especially in Glasgow are perfect for comedy with a great ambiance.  On top of that though, it is run in a way that manages to be 100% professional while still having a relaxed attitude.  They were the first club to see something in my act and this gave me a great boost. 
 
How do you think The Stand does/will differ from other weekend clubs like The Grinning Idiot and The Hyena?
 
I've never played the Hyena but, by reputation, they will cater to a different market.  The Stand is more similar to the Grinning Idiot in that they cater for a more comedy literate audience rather than stag and hen nights.  The Grinning Idiot would differ in that they run a variety of venues, in Newcastle and other places, while The Stand will look to run nightly in one specific venue.  In terms of mission statements, the two clubs are similar and allow for a more leftfield approach to stand-up.
 
Is there a worry that a few of the smaller nights will fold when they open their venue in Newcastle?
It's possible certainly but the impression that I get is that The Stand has led to a growth in stand-up in Glasgow and Edinburgh.  Over time, it seems likely to me that The Stand will lead to an increase in the number of people who regularly go to see comedy in Newcastle, this can only be good news for other promoters. 
 
What do you think The Stand will bring to the North East scene?

I think it will be a great benefit, both to those watching and performing comedy.  I think the new act scene is relatively strong in Newcastle and I know that The Stand are always looking at reliable, imaginative local acts.  If I was Jack Gardner, Nicola Mantalios-Lovett or Jon Pelham to name a few, I would look at the fact that they offered me a weekend at the Edinburgh Stand after seeing me for the first time as a sign that, even after the 20-30 gigs they have under their name, The Stand would be willing to take a chance on their potential if they impress at the 'Red Raw' new act night. 
 
In Edinburgh, The Stand is easily associated with local acts such as Vladimir McTavish and Susan Morrison.  It's easy to imagine the likes of Andy Fury and Tony Jameson becoming synonymous with the Newcastle Stand.