Williams surprises fans at club gig

9 November 2008 03:29pm

Hollywood star Robin Williams returned to the UK stage for the first time in 25 years by treating a crowd of just 100 comedy fans to a surprise stand-up set.

The actor and comedian chose to warm up for major performances in London later this week by playing at a regular comedy night in a student bar in the capital.

He drew plenty of laughs from a delighted audience at London School of Economics (LSE) during his intimate show.

Around 100 people who paid £12 for tickets to The Chuckle Club saw the special guest.

Host Paul Jay was not allowed to reveal that the US comedian would be on the stage but sparked rumours when he told regulars of the LSE's long-running comedy night there would be a secret, famous star.

In an email sent to his mailing list ahead of Saturday night's gig, he said: "If you have seen our website, and have seen the pictures and names of all the stars who have appeared at the club in the past 23 years, then this person is more famous than any of them!

"I am praying they are not taken suddenly ill or anything. I still can't really believe this person will be on our show."

Mr Jay, who goes under the name of Eugene Cheese for the night, said: "It was the thrill of my life to have Robin Williams. He was marvellous - very, very funny."

© The Press Association