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WANNA-BE comedians stepped out to deliver their gags in a bid to win a spot on a comedy spectacular being staged this weekend.
Ten funnymen put their talents to the test at the Intercontinental Regency Hotel's Clipper Room last Friday in front of packed house.
The comedy auditions were organised by Radio Bahrain DJ and entertainer Imran Al Aradi. He said: "The auditions were a great success. Most of the performers were first-timers yet they stood up there and did it as if they had been comics their whole life.
"The audience was extremely supportive and we definitely created history. The reason I say we made history is because we had all nationalities gathered together in one room sharing a common bond - laughter."
Bahraini-Brit Tariq Sharif, Omani Muneer Al Busaidi and Mike Guaigua from Ecuador have been chosen to appear in Arabian Knights of Comedy, alongside established local and regional comedians at the same venue this Friday.
Mr Al Aradi added: "We do not need to import talent from the US or Europe as we can find it locally. The whole purpose of this event was to increase the number of talented comedians in Bahrain and to provide a different source of entertainment."
While stand-up is still quite a new concept in the kingdom, Imran has already established himself as a well-known face on the comedy front, hosting and performing at various venues throughout the Gulf.
Mr Al Busaidi, 29, an internet marketer for Gulf Air, and first-timer on the comedy stage, lives in Hoora. His childhood memories of impersonating Michael Jackson and travel stories had the audience roaring with laughter.
He said: "I'm on top of the world. I have been a big fan of comedians, watching them on TV all the time and I am surrounded by funny people. I am really excited about Friday's main show and hope everyone will come out and cheer us on."
The local jokers will be vying for a prize return ticket to London courtesy of Oman Air or vouchers from Yaquby Stores and Jashanmals which will be given to the residentcomedians on the night.
Doors will open at 6pm at the Clipper Room and the show will start at 7pm. Tickets cost BD8. For details contact info@imranalaradi.com.
