Boom Boom Comedy Club, founded in 2019 by Highams Park resident Amanda Goodwin, transforms the function room of The County Arms into a venue showcasing emerging comedians from east London and beyond.
Born in Manchester, Amanda grew up around the city’s comedy circuit, often watching her father, the late entertainer Dave Baron, perform.
Amanda said: “I grew up in the grubby world of working men’s clubs in Manchester, watching my dad on stage and helping out at his shows.
“I’ve always found humour in everything.”
She moved to London in 1990 to study at East 15 Drama School, later shifting her focus from acting to behind-the-scenes work, and launched Act 2 Drama, a children’s drama school in Highams Park, in 2002.
She also established the charity ACT2 Aid, which supports creative opportunities for children and families in the UK and abroad.
Amanda said: “I know how hard it can be to break through in the arts, especially if you come from a working-class background or you’re differently abled.
“Creating spaces like Boom Boom means I can support new talent while giving something back to the community.
“I wanted to combine two things I loved – charity work and comedy.”
All profits from the comedy nights support ACT2 Aid.
Amanda says she was immediately drawn to The County Arms as a venue.
“It had that old working-men’s club, community feel that reminded me of my dad’s days, but it also felt fresh and welcoming for new comedians.
“I wanted to create a space where performers could just turn up to a willing audience and show their skills, without being ripped off or exploited.”
Each show features eight up-and-coming acts, hosted by compere Mel Byron.
