If so, then there's a treat in store for you in January when the Watershed and the Colston Hall host a joint celebration of all things slapstick. The Slapstick Silent Comedy Festival is organised by local silent film buffs Bristol Silents, and features a host of rarely-seen slapstick gems from masters of the genre, including Buster Keaton, Charlie Chaplin and Harold Lloyd. It will be hosted by Paul Merton, of TV's Room 101 and Have I Got News For You, and include contributions from famous fans of the golden age of slapstick. Among those taking part will be Peter Lord, co-founder of Bristol's Aardman Animations and a long-time Buster Keaton fan, who will introduce three of Keaton's classic movies alongside a new documentary about the silent star, entitled So Funny It Hurt. Withnail and I star Paul McGann and fellow members of the Matinee Idles singing group will provide the acapella accompaniment to a new compilation of Keaton films entitled Keaton Racing. Silent clowns Paul Merton will front a gala evening of comedy, film and music - Paul Merton's Silent Clowns - featuring some of his favourite stars including Laurel and Hardy, as well as chairing a panel discussion on the subject of slapstick and hosting an afternoon of gems from forgotten silent movie comediennes. Festival organiser Chris Daniels said: "With silent comedy rarely seen on television nowadays this is a unique opportunity to see the great comics of the past that have influenced so many of today's comedians, including our host Paul Merton. "I think people will be amazed by the quality and talent of artists they may never even have heard of - the films on show are still relevant and, most importantly, just as funny today as they were 80 years ago." Paul Merton said: "Silent comedy has been a lifelong passion for me, and this, the first Slapstick festival is the result of months of planning by Bristol Silents. It promises to be an excellent three days." The festival runs from Thursday 13 January until Sunday 16 January. For a full programme of events, click on the Slapstick link above. | 
