Scotland’s finest comedic talent came together in Glasgow for a fundraising memorial gig to remember the ‘big man’ Gary Little on Thursday 25 September.
Described as one of Scotland’s finest comedians, Gary rose to prominence on the Scottish comedy circuit in the early 2000s. He first gained recognition as a finalist in a stand-up competition hosted by The Stand Comedy Club, and went on to perform regularly at both the Glasgow International Comedy Festival and the Edinburgh Fringe.
Held at the renowned Stand Comedy Club, the sell-out crowd laughed, cried and cheered through a mix of stand-up routine, video, photographs and emotive stories shared about Gary. A dedicated and passionate mentor with MCR Pathways for many years in the city he was so proud to call home, the gig was also about raising an incredible £5,994.37 for our charity in his name.
The line up on the night included many big hitters on the Scottish comedy scene, including Raymond Mearns, Chris Forbes, Jay Lafferty, Des McLean, Rosco McLelland and many more, plus a special appearance from Still Game’s very own, ‘Bobby the Barman’, Gavin Mitchell.
There were plenty of funny stories about life in Glasgow, awkward moments, and close calls — plus some hilarious anecdotes of getting up to all manner of high links with Gary in Oban, Thailand, and Australia.
The event concluded in the only way it should – with a short clip of Gary delivering a hilarious piece of stand up at the old Stand Comedy Club, just five hundred metres away from the impressive new venue on the Great Western Road, in his own very inimitable style, received by a standing ovation and rapturous applause.
Some of Gary’s immediate family attended the event, including his sister, Karen, who said: “What a great evening for the memory of Gary, funny but also emotional. We are delighted as a family we have been able to highlight the organisation and more importantly raise money for MCR pathways in Gary’s memory.”
Funds were raised in support of MCR Pathways on the night from ticket sales, donations and fining comedians £10 for every minute over their five-minute slot.
“Being a part of such a special night was truly an honour, and we’re so grateful to have had the support of Gary and his family, The Stand, and everyone there on the night”, said Laura Campbell, Senior Partnerships Manager for the West of Scotland at MCR Pathways. The funds raised will directly support the life-changing support we provide at MCR Pathways, ensuring Gary’s legacy as a mentor continues to inspire and empower young people across Glasgow.”
Sharon McIntyre, Chief Executive Officer at MCR Pathways said: “Gary gave his time, heart, and humour to support young people in his local community, inspiring them to believe in themselves and their potential. His kindness, passion, and unwavering commitment will leave a lasting mark on everyone he met.
“He will be profoundly missed. His impact is his legacy and that will live on in the many young lives he helped shape and, indeed, transform through the power of mentoring.”
If you would like to make a donation in Gary’s name, please click this link: https://tinyurl.com/2s8parnm
If you would like to find out more about becoming a volunteer mentor, please click this link: https://tinyurl.com/msa6e3vd
