More laughs
The Laughter Factory comedy club is back in town
Dominic Holland has been a stand-up comic for 25 years. He’s opened for Eddie Izzard (and was once managed by him), has written three books and penned jokes for some of the most wellknown comedic talents. Yet, after a life lived within grasp of fame, his 19-year-old son, Tom Holland, pipped him to the post when he was cast as Spider-Man in Marvel’s newest reboot of the franchise.
We caught up with Dominic ahead of his Dubai gig as part of Laughter Factory’s May lineup.
Why did you decide to go into comedy?
I decided to get into comedy when I realised that all of the professions that required exam grades would be beyond me.
What’s the best joke you’ve ever written?
A mate of mine is claustrophobic and agoraphobic... he has to live in a doorway.
How do you feel about being Spider-Man’s dad?
I feel great about Tom being Spider-Man but I still have three other kids and they earn naff all.
What’s been your proudest moment so far?
Supporting Eddie Izzard on tour was pretty special.
How was Eddie Izzard as a manager?
Eddie was getting into management and had his eye on comics who, like him, could dominate the world of comedy. He didn’t always get it right.
What has been your most embarrassing moment in your career so far?
I’m backstage, about to go and I can hear the compere talking to a pregnant lady in the front row. I go on and start talking to the lady I assume is pregnant. Turns out she is just fat, which I realise the moment I spot a very slim lady with a pronounced bump sitting at the end of the row. Awkward.
Which comedian do you most look up to and why?
The late Ronnie Barker – a man as good as a writer as he was performer. A rare thing in comedy.
How would you describe your sense of humour?
Undervalued. Dominic takes to the stage alongside Geordie comedian Kai Humphries and Edinburgh Fringe Festival favourite Addy Van Der Borgh. Addy Van Der Borgh May 11 and 12
Mövenpick JBR, 9pm, Dhs140. Tel: (050) 8786728. Taxi: Mövenpick JBR. thelaughterfactory.com May 18
Grand Millennium Hotel, Barsha Heights, Dubai, 9pm, Dhs140. Tel: (050) 8786728. Taxi: Grand Millennium Hotel. thelaughterfactory.com May 19
The Gramercy, Precinct Building 3, Level 2 (behind Ritz-Carlton DIFC), DIFC, Dubai, 9pm, Dhs140. Tel: (050) 8786728. Metro: Financial Centre. thelaughterfactory.com