But by the time Canadian Craig Campbell came on stage, the last act of the night, the crowd was stupefied. Nothing he could say or do was going to rouse them from their comedy coma. Which is unfair, because he deserved better.
As did the audience. The Comedy Gala used to kick off the festival with a hiss and a roar. It was a rowdy, ramshackle show that took no prisoners and the crowd went wild for it. A few months later someone would remember they'd filmed it and stick it on TV.
These days, it is a television production and ticket holders have become the chumps in the studio audience.
Which is why when Byrne misread Guy Williams name as Williamson, he came back on stage 15 minutes later to re-introduce him. Clearly that mishap won't be making the final cut.
But it should. That's the joy of live comedy - the missteps and misfires and how comedians respond. For the record, Williams handled the flub with aplomb.
He also wins the prize for best joke of the night, telling the audience last year the New Zealand Herald called him "underwhelming".
"In my defence, I didn't know I was being reviewed. I thought I was getting some PR advice to help with my career."
Well played, Mr Williams. He also get bonus points for being the only comedian of the night to weave something so fresh and topical into his set. But then, topicality is no good for TV. It time locks the content.
At the other end of the spectrum was Byrne, who relied on his greatest hits reel to fulfill hosting duties, rehashing material that many will have seen on Live at the Apollo and The Graham Norton Show.
Still, it will make good telly and that's what it's all about apparently. It's certainly to blame for the over-stuffed schedule (which despite 21 acts still only managed to feature three females).
Which rather makes you feel, as you desperately squirm around trying to regain feeling in your left bum cheek, that you may as well forgo the live show and just watch at home.
FIVE ACTS TO SEE:
DeAnne Smith
Canadian Smith was one of the few to successfully banter with the crowd last night, taking a shine to one lady in particular. "I have to make you a little bit uncomfortable because these people f***ing love it," she explained, as the crowd laughed heartily. It was fresh and funny and we'd happily see more.
• Tues Apr 28 - Sat May 2, 7.15pm, Vault at Q Theatre
Tom Binns as Ivan Brackenbury
British comedian Binns took the stage as Ivan Brackenbury last night, in one the night's most surprising and unexpected hits. Playing the role of hospital DJ Brackenbury, Binns set up jokes before playing genuine chart hits as the punch line. It might sound gimmicky but the result was delightful. His show features both Brackenbury and a second character, psychic Ian D Montford.
•Tues May 5 - Sat May 9, 7.15pm, Loft at Q theatre
Harley Breen
There's an easiness to Aussie Breen's humour that feels like you're listening to a mate spin a few yarns. He swears heartily but not aggressively, which makes for strangely endearing viewing.
• Wed May 13 - Sat 16, 10pm, The Basement Studio
Jamie Bowen
Bowen's set is unlikely to make the televised version of events as the punch-drunk audience struggled to get on board with his profound existential quandaries. But with the benefit of a full set and the crowd's undivided attention, Bowen has the makings of a fascinating, thought-provoking, and (we suspect) highly entertaining show.
• Tuesday May 5 to Sat May 8, 8.30pm, The Basement
Des Bishop
He may dress like a classic gent but Bishop is street-smart, wise cracking New Yorker at heart. With a razor sharp tongue and unexpected beat box skills, Bishop serves classic comedy with a twist.
• Tues Apr 28 - Sat May 2, 7pm, Herald Theatre
- nzherald.co.nz
