The Glee Clubs’ comedy booker Adam Jaremko has a message for anyone who likes a good laugh: You can’t beat being at a live stand-up show, so knock off your Netflix and see what’s coming up in Brum…
BEEN THERE DONE THAT
After graduating from DeMontfort University, Leicester with a degree in media production I moved back to Birmingham and joined the Glee Club, where I’ve worked in several roles over the years leading to my current position as comedy promoter and booker.
IT’S WHAT I DO
As comedy promoter, I arrange and oversee the comedians and tour shows that pass through our venues every week. The aim is to programme a diverse range of shows that will appeal to different audiences who are after a night of laughs. It always feels good to be part of that process and see different people come together and forget whatever troubles they may have. I’ve found that comedy can be a powerful release for all walks of life.
WHAT I’D LIKE TO SEE
I’ve always had a passion for comedy so I’ve had the growing need to perform for a while now. I’m part of the weekly Comedy Carousel show at the Glee (every Thursday night) with Andy Robinson, which currently scratches that comedy itch for me, but there are always some new crazy ideas on the horizon…
BIGGEST SUCCESS
I started a Lapel Pin company with some friends a few years ago called Pingame and have been producing pins for independent businesses, clubs, comedians and charities in Birmingham – from Joe Lycett, to Whiskey Club and Independent Birmingham – as well as spreading the word about championing said independents. Also, winning a Chortle Award for Comedy Carousel justifies all the hard work myself and Andy Robinson put in, week in and week out.
BIGGEST LESSON LEARNED
Not everything that’s popular online translates to a successful live show, so I’ve learned to trust my instincts when it comes to booking comedy shows, putting talent over ‘likes’.
WHAT I LIKE ABOUT BRUM
I really love Birmingham’s innate humour and dismissal of criticism. We’re a proud city but one that’s not afraid to have a laugh at ourselves. It has a thriving community of comedians, artists, musicians and independent businesses, and to see people try and spread the word and celebrate these quieter voices makes me proud to be a Brummie.
DOWNTIME
In my spare time I play guitar in a band and have recently got into painting, which is something I thought I’d never be good at, and I was right – but it’s early days yet! I’ve also been watching loads of comedy on TV and I’d recommend US documentary the Zen Diaries of Garry Shandling, and UK sitcom This Country.
FINALLY…
You can’t beat being at a live stand-up show, so knock off your Netflix and see what’s coming up!