Iconic Glasgow comedy club The Stand to auction famous 'cowboy with a gun' stage backdrop

Artist Mac takes down the original backdrop

Comedians have graced the stage against the backdrop of a painting depicting a young boy dressed as a cowboy holding a gun to his head since the club's inception.

However, the backdrop will soon be replaced with a more child-friendly version— a painting featuring an unarmed young cowboy. The change aligns with The Stand's commitment to promoting the positive impact of comedy on children, according to a statement.

Comedian Kevin Bridges performing in front of the new artwork

Comedy enthusiasts will have the opportunity to bid on this historic piece through an online auction starting at 9 am on Monday, February 5, 2024, and concluding at 7.30 pm on Thursday, February 15.

Details and participation information can be found on The Stand's official website.

Proceeds from the sale will contribute to the ongoing efforts of The Stand's charitable organisation, Stand Education Ltd. The organisation collaborates with local primary schools, encouraging young students to explore and perform comedy.

Notably, students get the chance to perform on the same iconic stage that served as a launchpad for renowned Scottish comedians like Frankie Boyle, Fern Brady, and Daniel Sloss.

Daniel Sloss, reflecting on The Stand, said, “Without the Stand, I would never have had the opportunity to perform live when I was ready to. And it isn't just about the stage time they offer — it's combined with the feedback and encouragement of an institution and staff that knows comedy back to front.”

Sloss added, "The Stand's legacy is everywhere to be seen — live, online, onscreen. They provide a safe space for people with fresh (and hopefully original) voices to start out and develop, and a place for more seasoned acts to try new material, as well as the opportunity for all levels of comedians to mingle backstage. The Stand is not only vital for live comedy but also a national treasure that needs and deserves ongoing support from audiences and also from acts once they become more successful so the legacy is able to continue.”

The auction follows the success of the first backdrop sale in Edinburgh, which raised an impressive £7,500. The funds have played a crucial role in supporting Stand Education's initiatives across Scotland.

Comedian Frankie Boyle performing in front of the old backdrop

The original cowboy backdrop, a 9ft by 8ft painting in oils on three wooden panels by artist Thomas 'Mac' Macgregor, was inspired by a family photo of his brother Dave in a cowboy costume with a toy gun. It was part of Macgregor's BA degree show at Edinburgh College of Art 25 years ago and has been a staple at The Stand's venues ever since.

Comedian Kevin Bridges performing in front of the old backdrop

Stand Education, supported by long-time resident comedian Jay Lafferty, has executed three projects across Scotland since the initial auction, providing young talents with the opportunity to perform on The Stand's stage.

Founded in 1995 by Tommy Sheppard and Jane Mackay, The Stand Comedy Club has become a pivotal platform for emerging Scottish comedians. The Glasgow venue, opened in 2000, has been instrumental in nurturing talents like Kevin Bridges, who remarked, “The Stand is my comedy home and still the best club in the world.”

With venues in Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Newcastle, The Stand continues to play a vital role in shaping the comedy landscape. As the auction for the iconic Glasgow backdrop unfolds, it marks not only the sale of a historic piece but also a continued investment in the future of comedy and the next generation of comedic talents.