Hilarity Bites

Topcliffe, April 25th 2024
2024-04-25 19:30 - 22:30 UTC | The Angel at Topcliffe, The Angel at Topcliffe, Long Street, Topcliffe, YO7 3RW, United Kingdom
Hilarity Bites Comedy Club feat. Nathan Caton, Peter Brush, and host Dave Twentyman
Show details:

Nathan Caton
As seen and heard on Live At The Apollo, Mock The Week, Russell Howard’s Good News, and BBC Radio 4’s 'Can’t Tell Nathan Caton Nothing', Nathan Caton is one of the most exciting young comedians on the scene. Gigging since the tender age of 19, over the last decade he has established himself both as a circuit headliner, and a name on TV and radio.
Within his first few years on stage, Nathan had picked up various accolades and coveted plaudits including the Chortle Student Comic of the Year award, a Broadcast Hotshot award, and written and starred in a pilot for Paramount Comedy (now Comedy Central) entitled The Nathan Caton Show.
Since then Caton has gone from strength to strength, wowing audiences at comedy clubs up and down the UK, and on his numerous TV and radio appearances, with his delightfully charming blend of personal and political comedy.
“Funny, clever and a pleasure to listen to” - Broadway Baby
“A comic well worth catching any chance you can” - One4Review
“A charming and convincing operator” - The List

Peter Brush
A highly distinctive performer and deft writer of finely crafted jokes, Peter Brush unassumingly takes the stage with his slight bespectacled frame and scruffy hair, before consummately conquering it with an arsenal of razor sharp quirky one-liners and peerlessly original routines, all delivered in an amusingly awkward fashion.
Peter performs at all the major clubs across the UK, as well as having done many of it’s biggest festivals, he has also played shows in Switzerland, Norway and Hungary. Formerly a BBC New Comedy Award finalist, he has written for several BBC Radio 4 shows and was the support act for Alexei Sayle’s most recent tour. Other acts he has supported on tour include Jonathan Pie, Jason Manford, Fern Brady, Arthur Smith and Paul Sinha.
“compellingly hilarious... first-class gag writing... an original and achingly funny voice” - ★★★★½ - Chortle
“I love Peter Brush, what a comic” - Jason Manford
“unique observations and connections that stand-ups crave” - The Guardian
“He’s a great comic” - BBC Radio 4 Saturday Review

Dave Twentyman
Affable, quick-witted banter merchant, Dave Twentyman survived a childhood in St Helens by evolving rapid, startlingly-bright patter and a smile that he somehow stole from Barry Manilow. This is a man who could teach Teflon a trick-or-two but who remains vastly more fun than your average frying-pan. What higher praise can there be?
No matter what your mood, you really can't help but warm to Dave. He puts a big smile on everyone's face. His chatty, cheeky style endears him to the toughest of crowds. Dave talks a lot about the subjects closer to home, such as family life & friends. Its lighthearted, positive fun, you can't help relating to.
A regular performer at many of the best weekend clubs in the country, Dave has also performed at a number of music festivals over the years such as Leeds, V Festival, Download, etc
“Thoroughly impressed, best I've seen in ages. Great warmth and style” - Dave Spikey
“F**king Brilliant” - John Bishop
“Really like his stuff” - Jason Manford

This show will also feature a newer act in the middle.

Note: Line-ups are subject to change in extreme, and unavoidable, circumstances.
Show may contain strong language and adult themes.

Timings
Doors open: 7:30pm
Show starts: 8pm

Buy tickets:
Tickets for this show are £10 per person if bought in advance, or £12 on the day. Tickets can be bought from the link below, See Tickets, TicketMaster, Skiddle, or contact the venue directly.

Bishop Auckland, April 19th 2024
2024-04-19 19:30 - 22:30 | Bishop Auckland Town Hall, Bishop Auckland Town Hall, Market Place, Bishop Auckland, DL14 7NP, United Kingdom
Hilarity Bites Comedy Club feat. Ben Van der Velde, Kevin Daniel, and host Andy Fury
Show details:

Ben Van der Velde
Ben Van der Velde is a stand-up comedian, actor, improviser and presenter, who, over the past few years, has spread joy and nonsense to all four corners of the British Isles, as well as Greece, Estonia, Latvia, Finland and Norway.
He is a regular host and act for many respected British comedy clubs, as well as hosting stages for Bestival, Festival No.6 and Sunday Papers Live. He also has experience of performing at RAF bases, large corporate events, hosting comedy workshops, and doing audience warm-up for Deal Or No Deal.
Ben is a also regular performer at the Edinburgh Festival, where he has performed three critically-acclaimed shows: Chain Letter, Strudelhead and Barbarians. In 2016 his show received 5 and 4 star reviews, whilst several of the jokes made it into lists of ‘Best Joke at the Fringe’ compiled by The Scotsman, i-News and The Huffington Post.
“Whipsharp... with an air of mischievous mayhem... his hit rate is impressive, while his in-the-moment style creates a buzz of excitement in the room” - Chortle
“Wonderfully improvised riffs showcasing his impressive spontaneity and sharp tongue” - Edinburgh Festivals Magazine
“On flights of fancy, he pushes ideas to extremes and displays a crackling, spontaneous energy in which we’re swept up” - Fest

Kevin Daniel
Kevin has established himself as one of the hottest newer acts on the comedy circuit, working established comedy promoters across the UK, his commanding stage presence, relatable exquisite storytelling, and jokes a plenty, always leave audiences wanting more.
In his short comedy career. Kevin has performed at many comedy clubs including Blackpool Comedy Station, The Stand, Glee Club, Just The Tonic, Hilarity Bites, Comedy Hot Spots, Funhouse Comedy, Big Deal Comedy, and The Hull Comedy Lounge. Kevin has also supported Fiona Allen, Nathan Caton and Jack Gleadow on their UK tours.
In 2023 Kevin performed his first solo work in progress show 'Freedom' to sold out rooms at the Leicester and Glasgow Comedy Festivals. He also took the show to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival for a small run of shows.
In both 2022 and 2023 Kevin reached the semi finals of the British Comedian Of The Year, and in 2024 Kevin won the prestigious “Silver Stand Up” competition at the Leicester Comedy Festival.
“Kevin has a natural ability to fill a room with laughter, he's a genuinely funny guy” - Just The Tonic
“Kevin is a phenomenally talented comic. He began with some very astute observations about the room, which made his performance feel topical and special. The last time I saw KD, I was tempted to leave the review at just one word – Wow - and tonight was much the same. I don’t think I’ve ever seen anyone go from gong show to headlining so quickly” - Notts Comedy Review

Andy Fury
Despite starting comedy out of “sheer boredom” just a few years ago, Andy Fury has impressed a lot of people in a short space of time with a wonderful mix of self-deprecating dark jokes and off the wall surrealism.
With a laidback stage presence that sometimes borders horizontal, he’s as hard-working as he is funny and winning the Hilarity Bites New Act Of The Year 2010 title has put Andy on the path to working at many of the best clubs in the country, wowing audiences the length and breadth of the UK.
“An absolute genius of a comedian” - BBC
“Brilliant... The next Pub Landlord of comedy” - Hexham Courant
“A very funny man with a big future ahead of him” - Corby Radio

This show will also feature a newer act in the middle.

Note: Line-ups are subject to change in extreme, and unavoidable, circumstances.
Show may contain strong language and adult themes.

Timings
Doors open: 7:30pm
Show starts: 8pm

Buy tickets:
Tickets for this show can be bought online at www.bishopaucklandtownhall.org.uk, in person from Bishop Auckland Town Hall, or telephone 03000 269 524.

Malton, April 19th 2024
2024-04-19 19:30 - 22:00 | Milton Rooms, Malton, 2-4 Market Place, Malton, YO17 7LX, United Kingdom
Hilarity Bites Comedy Club feat. Alfie Joey, Patrick Draper, and host Tony Jameson
Show details:

Alfie Joey
Alfie Joey is a man of many talents. An artist, broadcaster, podcaster, comedian, communication coach, Ted X speaker, impressionist, interviewer, charity auctioneer, motivator, children’s author, MC... take your pick! Alfie Joey has covered a lot of ground & cultivated many skills in his time on this spinning rock.
For over two decades Alfie has been in demand as a host, comic and speaker in the corporate, entertainment & charity sectors. He has motivated and inspired people at Ted X, MC’d Wembley Arena, acted in sitcoms and pantomime, presented the breakfast show on BBC Newcastle for over a decade, and his Britain's Got Talent appearance was watched by over 10 million people on prime-time TV, and has been viewed over 3 million times on YouTube.
“Alfie is a star. He'd be the funny neighbour in a sitcom, the one who everybody in the studio audience cheers for. Alfie spreads joy like a virus, he will make you glad to be alive” - TimeOut
“A cheerful and natural talent, Alfie has plenty in his comedic bag of tricks to spread good cheer through any audience. With his spot-on impersonations and enthusiastic banter, he'd be right at home at a Royal Variety Performance... his effusive bonhomie is genuine and his material original and funny” - Chortle

Patrick Draper
Since Patrick first nonchalantly ambled onto the stage in October 2011, he has cemented his place on the UK comedy circuit with a mixed bag of deadpan jokes, visual gags and songs.
After making it to the finals of the English Comedian Of The Year awards in 2015, Patrick then took his debut show, Absolutely Vacuous to the Edinburgh Fringe festival, where his laissez-faire hour of comedy received a “Highly Recommended Show” accolade from Fringe Review, amongst other glowing critiques. Patrick can now be found making people laugh in some of the most prestigious comedy clubs all over the UK
“His unenthusiastic style has a nice, unhurried rhythm...” - Chortle

Tony Jameson
Since starting in September, 2008, Tony Jameson has established himself firmly as one of the brightest prospects in the North East comedy scene.
With his whimsical rambling manner, or flight of fancy, Tony takes audiences on a tour of the inner workings of his mind and the strange things that happen in his life. Fleeting from whimsy to dark one-liners, before stopping for a cup of tea and a breather. It’s a bit like a small child who always asks ‘why?’ His observations are well thought out, keeping the audience on their toes and intrigued, eager to see where his journey will take them.
In 2014 Tony had an exceptional run at the Edinburgh Festival, following a sell-out run in 2013 with his critically acclaimed show Football Manager Ruined My Life, which he then toured throughout Winter 2014, before taking it back on the road in 2015.
“Tony Jameson delivered both an imaginatively amusing and well received performance...” - Three Weeks
“Terrific... Wonderful... Life-affirming stuff...” - The Skinny
“The latest Geordie with massive potential” - Yorkshire Evening Press

Note: Line-ups are subject to change in extreme, and unavoidable, circumstances.
Show may contain strong language and adult themes.

Timings
Doors open: 7:30pm
Show starts: 8pm

Buy tickets:
Tickets for this show are £10 per person and are only available to buy from TicketSource. Click here to buy tickets.

Newton Aycliffe, April 18th 2024
2024-04-18 19:00 - 22:00 | Steam Machine Brewery, Newton Aycliffe, Steam Machine Brewing Co, 26 Northfield Way, Newton Aycliffe, DL5 6UF, United Kingdom
Hilarity Bitesize New Act & New Material Night, with Dominic Woodward, Richard Pulsford, host Jon Pearson & support
Show details:

Dominic Woodward
Dominic started comedy young and wide eyed back in 2001, and with nearly two decades experience on the UK circuit he's a safe pair of hands. He's cheeky, charming, full of energy and hilarious.
Now married with a mortgage, Dominic weaves side-splitting stories about his life and tells belly aching jokes that hit the mark with all audiences. There’s a naughty twinkle in his eyes but his act is warm, personal and inoffensive.
Dominic is always in demand as an act and compere. He regularly performs in comedy clubs all over the UK and overseas.
“Effortless delivery” - The Times
“Engaging material” - Manchester Evening News

Richard Pulsford
Scottish Comedian of the Year (SCOTY) runner-up, December 2021 and winner of Leicester Comedy Festival’s UK Pun Championships 2022, one-liner comedian Richard Pulsford is a popular act who fills his set with non-stop jokes.
Richard is the originator/host of daily joke-writing competition #LunchPun on Twitter, with over 2,000 followers, and the author of the published joke book ‘Richard Pulsford: The Punball Wizard’. He's also toured solo shows at festivals around the UK, including seven full runs at the Edinburgh Fringe, where he was nominated for Dave’s Top Ten Jokes of the Edinburgh Fringe in both 2019 and 2022.
“reminiscent of a master like Milton Jones, his (justified) confidence in his material shone through” - The Scotsman
“A barrage of one liners... some make you want to stand and applaud the brainery that creates the connections. [Richard is] enthralling... [he] exudes confidence and charm” - ★★★★★ - Lancaster Guardian
“His show… goes a long way to cementing his reputation… an assured performer... quick, original and funny” - ★★★★ - Broadway Baby

Jon Pearson
Jon began standup comedy in 2010, with his first performance at Birmingham’s Highlight Comedy Club. Cut to the present and Jon has become a regular face on the circuit, performing at prestigious clubs such as The Glee, The Boat Show & The Comedy Store, Jon’s career has even taken him overseas with performances in Spain, Norway and even as far away as Wigan (it is like being on another planet).
Jon is also a familiar face on at comedy festivals across the UK having taken three solo shows to the Leicester, Nottingham & Edinburgh festivals with the highlight of the all coming in the form of a sold out show at his home town Melton Theatre in Melton Mowbray.
Jon has also provided tour support for Darren Harriot on his UK 2018/2019 tour and Lucy Porter on her UK 2017 tour. Jon’s laid back storytelling has audiences hanging on his every word. With tales based around his own life experiences, his anecdotes are relatable and certain to have audiences in hysterics.
“Very tall and hugely funny” - Lucy Porter
“Brilliant” - Shropshire Star
“A natural ability for working an audience” - EdFringeReview.com

This show will also feature support from several new acts, and established acts performing new material.

Note: Line-ups are subject to change in extreme, and unavoidable, circumstances.
Show may contain strong language and adult themes.

Timings
Doors open: 7pm
Show starts: 7:30pm

Buy tickets:
Tickets for this show are £10 per person, with doors opening at 7pm and the show starting at 7:30pm. Tickets can be bought from the link below, See Tickets, TicketMaster, Skiddle, or contact the venue directly.

Darlington, April 6th 2024
2024-04-06 19:30 - 22:30 | The Forum, Darlington, The Forum, Borough Road, Darlington, DL1 1SG, United Kingdom
Hilarity Bites Comedy Club feat. Tony Law, Chris Brooker, Jimmy Shirley, and host Matt Reed
*** Tickets for this show are now sold-out***
Show details:

Tony Law
Canadian surrealist and master story-teller Tony Law is a three-time Chortle Award winner, an Amused Moose Best Show winner, and an Edinburgh Comedy Award nominee.
His extensive TV and radio credits include: Have I Got News For You (BBC One), The Alternative Comedy Experience (Comedy Central), 8 Out Of 10 Cats (Channel 4), Celebrity Mastermind (BBC One), Celebrity Squares (ITV) Never Mind The Buzzcocks (BBC Two), Heading Out (BBC Two), The Culture Show (BBC Two), Charlie Brooker’s Weekly Wipe (BBC Two), Edinburgh Nights (BBC Two), Tony Law’s Surreal Guide To Surreal Comedy (Radio 4 Extra), Loose Ends (Radio 4), and Infinite Monkey Cage (Radio 4).
Tony thinks everything he does is normal. Come and see how wrong he is. If this was Victorian times he would be in a travelling tent as a spectacle.
“The King of post-modern nonsense” - Telegraph
“Takes post-modern stand-up to a dangerously funny new level” - ★★★★ - The Guardian
“clever and blithely zany, he's just what the doctor ordered” - Telegraph

Chris Brooker
One of comedy’s heavy hitters, Chris Brooker’s infectious energy and enthusiasm sweeps through a room like an irresistible force. Chris’ combination of hilarious, original material and inspired improvisation means that you will never see the same routine twice. Immensely likeable, there’s no doubting his ability to win over any crowd and drag them along for the ride.
Described only half-accurately as comedy's ginger viking, Chris has taken his brand of comedy and compering all over the UK as well to the US and Canada. In 2008 he made history when he became the first foreign player to be chosen for the All-Star team at the ComedySportz World Championship in Portland, Oregon. Currently in high demand as an MC due to his ability to energise a room and think on his feet, Chris is also a polished performer with three full length solo shows under his belt. The most recent of which, Unstoppable, played to glowing reviews on both sides of the Atlantic.
“Very funny, very quick... On the spot humour” - BBC
“The best act of the night, his quick wit silencing hecklers and getting plenty of laughs” - Manchester Evening News
“A fitting finale, had the audience in stitches” - Student Online

Jimmy Shirley
Jimmy started his comedy career whilst living abroad in Greece. He's a whimsical storyteller with high energy, telling tales of the absurdity of a scouser in Greece and the everyday things that annoy him.
Jimmy reached the semi-final of 'So You Think You're Funny' in 2021 and was a finalist at the Southport Comedy Festival's New Comedian of the Year competition in 2022. Since then he has started to make a name for himself up and down the country on the comedy circuit performing on some of the biggest line ups and is definitely one to watch.
“Electrified the room and audience” - Lancaster Guardian

Matt Reed
Born and bred in Sunderland, Matt's affable style has won him fans across the UK. He effortlessly plays with the crowd with a natural rapport that is found in few comics. Matt, always ready, never disappointing will always make a good gig - great.
In 2015 Matt took his debut show to the Edinburgh Fringe, retelling the four year ordeal of how he was stalked and cat-fished by an online admirer. The show won rave reviews from critics and audience alike, with Matt playing to sell-out audiences.
With so many gigs of every size under his belt, from audiences of 3000 to 30, there is pretty much no comedy situation Matt can't handle. As pleasant as he is wonderfully brutal, Matt is a welcome addition to any comedy night entertaining the crowd while skillfully destroying any heckler that crosses his path.
“Absolutely hilarious... had the crowd rolling around” - BBC
“Brilliant... always original one of the newest stars of comedy” - The Leeds Guide
“Brilliantly handled a very difficult room, this fashionably unkempt lad will go far” - Swansea Telegraph

Note: Line-ups are subject to change in extreme, and unavoidable, circumstances.
Show may contain strong language and adult themes.

Timings
Doors open: 7:30pm
Show starts: 8pm

Buy tickets:
Tickets for this show are £12 each. Tickets can be bought from the link below, See Tickets, TicketMaster, Skiddle, or contact the venue directly.

Hartlepool, April 4th 2024
2024-04-04 19:00 - 22:00 | Hops & Cheese, Hartlepool, 9-11 Tower Street, Hartlepool, TS24 7HH, United Kingdom
Hilarity Bitesize New Act & New Material Night, with Simon Donald, Anja Atkinson, host Kieran Lawless & support
Show details:

Simon Donald
Simon Donald co-founded the publishing sensation of the 1980’s, Viz Comic, writing and drawing on its pages for 24 years, before leaving in 2003 to become a TV presenter, pundit and media whore. He moved into stand-up comedy in 2008, his one-man shows featuring annually at the Edinburgh Fringe.
Famed for the characters he created in Viz, Simon often performs as one or more of a bunch of new outrageous creations that have taken Donald's character creativity from page to stage - Barry Twyford market research dogsbody, whose bizarre survey raises more questions than it answers, Bingo from Benton drunken street philosopher and charmless aggressor, Jeremy Jitler novice comedian lacking a sense of humour, Rich Kestrel Cockney motormouth and 'supplier' to the stars, and Dominic Farquhar first year medic, the funniest guy on his whole landing. In fact, He's probably the funniest guy in the whole of Mandela Halls, actually.
“Superb, inventive comedy” - The Stage
“Hugely entertaining” - Chortle
“Subversive... very clever. Hilarious” - The List

Anja Atkinson
Newcastle based comedian Anja Atkinson is garnering attention for her relentless, caustic wit and has been described as “funny, filthy and fabulous”.
She won Mr Shindig's New Act of the Year and Manchester Comedy Store's King Gong in 2017, both within her first year of performing. Now a regular at venues all over the North of England, Anja has been featured on BBC Radio 4's "Fred at the Stand" with Fred McCauley, as well as BBC Newcastle’s “Grin Up North“ Comedy Showcase. Anja was also shortlisted for the BBC New Comedian of the Year 2022 Regional Showcase.
“deliciously devilish Anja Atkinson, who has developed into a strong headline act over the last year with her almost brutal honesty and strong punchlines” - NARC

Kieran Lawless
Kieran Lawless is an Irish comedian now based in Manchester. He has worked in comedy clubs across Ireland, the UK & Europe including supporting Patrick Kielty in Dublin's Olympia Theatre.
Well respected in his native Ireland, his television credits include; New Comedy Awards (RTE), The Takeover (RTE), and RED TV (RTE).
Kieran has also won numerous New Comedian awards including The Nothin Butt Funny Comedy award.
“exceedingly entertaining, highly energised and side splittingly funny” - NorthWestEnd.co.uk

This show will also feature support from several new acts, and established acts performing new material.

Note: Line-ups are subject to change in extreme, and unavoidable, circumstances.
Show may contain strong language and adult themes.

Timings
Doors open: 7pm
Show starts: 7:30pm

Buy tickets:
Tickets for this show are £10 per person, with doors opening at 7pm and the show starting at 7:30pm. Tickets can be bought from the link below, See Tickets, TicketMaster, Skiddle, or contact the venue directly.

Ripon, April 2nd 2024
2024-04-02 19:30 - 22:30 | Arts Hub, Ripon, 49a Allhallowgate, Ripon, North Yorkshire, HG4 1LQ, United Kingdom
Hilarity Bites Comedy Club feat. Tom Houghton, Tony Cowards, and host Lee Kyle
Show details:

Tom Houghton
Tom Houghton was previously 1/5th of comedy troupe "The Noise Next Door" and is now taking the comedy circuit by storm with his quick wit, and charming persona.
Regularly performing up and down the country and abroad - as well as touring the country in his own sell-out solo showss - you may even have caught him on Netflix's "The Circle", Channel Four's "First Dates Hotel", or at his sell-out debut Edinburgh Fringe show, which went on tour in early 2018. Tom is also hugely popular on social media, with millions of views across all platforms.
Strap in and be prepared to have your funny bones tickled and your levels of decency questioned by one of the hottest acts around.
“this unexpected tour de force warrants a 21-gun salute” - ★★★★ – The Daily Telegraph
“Please take my advice. Get a ticket today. Tomorrow may well be too late. A Star is Born” - ★★★★★ – One 4 Review
“The long awaited male answer to Bridget Jones made flesh” - ★★★★ – The Daily Telegraph

Tony Cowards
Tony is a rapidfire gag merchant with an arsenal full of one-liners, for laughs-per-minute he's a tough act to beat!
His quick wit has made him a sought after act and compere by comedy clubs and promoters across the UK and even for gigs worldwide. Something of a Twitter sensation, Tony's jokes turn up in all sorts of places, from greetings cards to The Times newspaper, even if you've never heard of him there's a good chance that you'll have laughed at one of his gags.
Tony’s likable ‘everyman’ character and wide ranging humour (mostly clean) means he is comfortable in front of any audience and is regularly booked for comedy nights for the military, universities, sports clubs, festivals and after-dinner work. In July 2014, Tony placed third in the English Comedian of the Year Competition.
“Tony Cowards as the MC skilfully whipped the full house into a state of rapture in anticipation of the evening's special guest” - Three Weeks
“The best joke writer around” - GQ
“The Punosaurus” - The List
“A beaut of a one-liner merchant” - LondonisFunny.com

Lee Kyle
In his never ending quest not to have a proper job, Lee Kyle spent time as part of an all male Spice Girls tribute act before spending a decade as a professional wrestler.
Managing the difficult trick of being both odd and relatable, he did a show at the Edinburgh Fringe in 2013 that he heard was well received but he doesn't read reviews because his psyche is too fragile to handle them so he isn't totally sure what they said.
Armed with props and a rapid gag rate he cuts a confident, if off-beat figure on stage. His jokes veer between the clever and the silly and deliver more than their fair share of belly laughs.
“Had everyone on their feet - Sublimely ridiculous” - The Northern Echo
“A brilliant performance.. Pure genius!” - NARC Magazine
“Quirky and original - the highlight of the night” - Giggle Beats

This show will also feature a newer act in the middle.

Note: Line-ups are subject to change in extreme, and unavoidable, circumstances.
Show may contain strong language and adult themes.

Timings
Doors open: 7:30pm
Show starts: 8pm

Buy tickets:
Tickets for this show are £10 per person, with doors opening at 7:30pm and the show starting at 8pm. Tickets can be bought from the link below, See Tickets, TicketMaster, Skiddle, or contact the venue directly.

Topcliffe, March 28th 2024
2024-03-28 19:30 - 22:30 | The Angel at Topcliffe, The Angel at Topcliffe, Long Street, Topcliffe, YO7 3RW, United Kingdom
Hilarity Bites Comedy Club feat. Rob Rouse, Paul McCaffrey, and host Barry Dodds
Show details:

Rob Rouse
Rob Rouse is a man who doesn't know the meaning of the word calm. Full of beans, Rob can't slow down, and why would he when he makes so many people laugh. Rob first made the leap into stand up comedy in the late 1990s, touring the university circuits. In 1998 he won the prestigious 'So You Think You're Funny' competition at the Edinburgh Festival.
As seen on Dave's One Night Stand, Celebrity Juice, 8 out of 10 Cats, The Friday Night Project, and much more, Rob is one of comedy’s most lively, loveable and dynamic performers.
Performing a rare club show, whilst in between tours, expect stories of his life as a father, his encounters with road-kill and his life as the beleaguered owner of the most spectacularly randy dog you’re ever likely to hear about...
“He’s a man with genuinely funny bones” - Sunday Times
“Rob Rouse is a born clown, a latter-day Stan Laurel” - Time Out
“Every single one of these everyday observations and shared recognitions is blown out of the mainstream by his electric-shock treatment of the material... You want to hug his brain for coming up with this stuff, even as you want to wash his mouth out with soap for saying it” - The Herald

Paul McCaffrey
As seen on Live at the Apollo, and co-hosting smash hit podcast 'What's Upset You Now?', Paul completed two sell-out tours of the UK with Sean Lock on his Keep It Light tour in 2017, and more recently toured with Kevin Bridges on his record-breaking Brand New tour in 2018. He has performed two solo tours of his own, Suburban Legend in 2018, and Lemon in 2020/21.
In 2019 Paul made his debut on the flagship BBC stand-up show Live at the Apollo. He previously has starred in BBC Three’s Impractical Jokers and Russell Howard’s Good News, Comedy Central’s Stand Up Central, Channel 4’s 50 Funniest, and CBBC’s The Dog Ate My Homework.
An accomplished radio presenter and guest, Paul has recently been heard on talkSPORT, Absolute’s The Alternative Vote, Rock ‘N’ Roll Football with Rob Beckett, and Russell Kane’s Whistle Stop Tour on BBC Radio 2. He also presents The Paul McCaffrey Show every Saturday morning on Jack FM.
Paul is an award-winning comedian (Latitude New Act of the Year, London Paper New Act of the Year) and headlines at the biggest comedy clubs in the country. He has performed four critically acclaimed Edinburgh shows, as well as appearing at major music festivals such as Reading, Leeds, V Festival, Bestival and Latitude.
“The relaxed, assured confidence of a stadium filler” - Chortle
“Charm, charisma and success written all over him” - Evening Standard
“A total natural, his storytelling is utterly unique and never anything less than gut-bustlingly hilarious” - GQ

Barry Dodds
Barry Dodds charms audiences with his unique brand of disarming wit and wry, down-to-earth observational humour.
A self-confessed comedy geek, Barry took to the comedy stage at the tender age of 21 and soon had audiences eating out of the palm of his hand. Using his own combination of irrepressibly cheeky, and surprisingly dark material, he quickly found himself taking the national comedy circuit by storm.
His calm, inclusive persona has ensured that Barry has also proven himself to be a popular and amiable MC, garnering a reputation as a strong and reliable choice to hold a quality line up together. Barry has been awarded Best MC at the Midlands Comedy Awards in 2015, 2016 and 2017
Barry is one-half of popular podcast 'The Worriers' with Hayley Ellis, and was also half of the popular Parapod podcast with comedian Ian Boldsworth. Ian and Barry debate the paranormal, explore hauntings, and delve headfirst into the unknown. The Parapod quickly became a cult hit, and was nominated for 'Best Internet' award at the 2016 Chortle Awards.
“If you are a promoter or club owner and aren't booking Barry Dodds then you should hand in your badge and your gun on my desk Monday morning!” - Jason Manford
“Razor sharp humour” - Metro
“wonderfully crafted stories and top–class audience interaction... brings his cheekiness to the stage in absolute buckets” - Bunbury Magazine

This show will also feature a newer act in the middle.

Note: Line-ups are subject to change in extreme, and unavoidable, circumstances.
Show may contain strong language and adult themes.

Timings
Doors open: 7:30pm
Show starts: 8pm

Buy tickets:
Tickets for this show are £10 per person if bought in advance, or £12 on the day. Tickets can be bought from the link below, See Tickets, TicketMaster, Skiddle, or contact the venue directly.

Bishop Auckland, March 22nd 2024
2024-03-22 19:30 - 22:30 | Bishop Auckland Town Hall, Bishop Auckland Town Hall, Market Place, Bishop Auckland, DL14 7NP, United Kingdom
Hilarity Bites Comedy Club feat. Steve Day, Alex Hylton, Elaine Robertson, and host Lee Kyle
Show details:

Steve Day
Steve Day describes himself as Britains only deaf comedian, and if there are any others then he hasn't heard. Actually there are a couple of others who have started since he wrote that joke, but it's only a joke after all.
For the past dozen years Steve has been performing to huge laughter around the country and abroad - well, they tell him the laughter was huge to humour him, he doesn't know either way.
Married with five children (a fact nothing to do with not being able to hear the word 'No') Steve has been described as 'warm and witty' by the Scotsman and has received many other rave reviews whilst performing shows at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Chortle gave him five stars in 2007 for Deafy's Island Discs, a show The Sunday Times called 'Funny and Moving'.
“Revelatory and very funny” - The Guardian
“Warm, funny, frank and thought-provoking” - The Scotsman
“Wonderful” - Bath Chronicle

Alex Hylton
'Best Show' Leicester Comedy Festival 2020 - Winner
Alex Hylton is one of the fastest rising comics in the Midlands and a presenter and writer for BlueMoonRisingTv. A youthful, energetic new act with relatable anecdotes of adolescence, mixing in one-liners and a smudge of surrealism to create a likable and unique style, Alex is tipped by many to go all the way.
“Hylton takes charge of a room, fluent and funny storytelling is second nature to this comic” - Wee Review
“Well crafted, vivid storytelling performed with commitment” - Three Weeks
“A hilarious abundance of energy” - The Recs

Elaine Robertson
With a surreal eye for observational comedy and keen knack for audience interaction, Elaine has been described as ‘Laugh out loud’, ‘Natural, effortless and off-the-cuff (The Cherwell) and a ‘Brilliant wit and comedic talent’ (Ed Fringe Review).
In 2022 Elaine was a Regional Finalist for BBC New Comedian of the Year.
“I’ve been doing comedy for over 20 years and it’s very rare that I see someone who was born to do it. Elaine is one such person. effortlessly hilarious with original material I wish I’d thought of myself. If she doesn’t do well it’s to the detriment of comedy” - Matt Reed
“A huge personality, Elaine has a quality that is very rare in new comedians, that being the ability to ad-lib and go with wherever the gig takes her. She's good now, very good in fact but she could well develop into a truly special comic” - Felt Nowt Comedy
“Laugh out loud, natural, effortless and off-the-cuff” - The Cherwell

Lee Kyle
In his never ending quest not to have a proper job, Lee Kyle spent time as part of an all male Spice Girls tribute act before spending a decade as a professional wrestler.
Managing the difficult trick of being both odd and relatable, he did a show at the Edinburgh Fringe in 2013 that he heard was well received but he doesn't read reviews because his psyche is too fragile to handle them so he isn't totally sure what they said.
Armed with props and a rapid gag rate he cuts a confident, if off-beat figure on stage. His jokes veer between the clever and the silly and deliver more than their fair share of belly laughs.
“Had everyone on their feet - Sublimely ridiculous” - The Northern Echo
“A brilliant performance.. Pure genius!” - NARC Magazine
“Quirky and original - the highlight of the night” - Giggle Beats

Note: Line-ups are subject to change in extreme, and unavoidable, circumstances.
Show may contain strong language and adult themes.

Timings
Doors open: 7:30pm
Show starts: 8pm

Buy tickets:
Tickets for this show can be bought online at www.bishopaucklandtownhall.org.uk, in person from Bishop Auckland Town Hall, or telephone 03000 269 524.

Newton Aycliffe, March 21st 2024
2024-03-21 19:00 - 22:00 | Steam Machine Brewery, Newton Aycliffe, Steam Machine Brewing Co, 26 Northfield Way, Newton Aycliffe, DL5 6UF, United Kingdom
Hilarity Bitesize New Act & New Material Night, with Phil Chapman, Michael Holford, host Si Beckwith & support
Show details:

Phil Chapman
Paul Smith Tour Support
Phil Chapman is one of the most prolific writers on the circuit, ensuring his material is up to date and the audience get a fresh show every time they see him. His work rate has not gone unnoticed and in the past he’s been invited to write for BBC Radio 4’s The News Quiz and BBC Radio 4 Extra’s Newsjack.
A quick wit and a constant turnover of material have ensured he has become a highly sought after act and MC. He’s a regular host at the world famous Hot Water Comedy Club as well as many other major clubs in the UK as well as abroad, and Phil has a wealth of material and sketches available online. Not only a hit on the comedy scene, he’s also a recognised musical artist with his smash hit single Slogans in collaboration with DJ Hans Face Space, which was released to great fanfare during the pandemic.
“An instant hit” - Liverpool Echo
“A good stage presence, with jokes to match” - GiggleBeats
“Fearless as well as bloody funny” - Smacked Arse Comedy

Michael Holford
Michael bounds onto stage with an enthusiasm that is infectious and immediately welcomes the audience in.
His act is a lovely mix of his childhood, the characters he has met along the way, and stories of married life that people find extremely relatable. The amount of knowing looks and and nods in the crowd always backs this up.
There's a delightful tone to Holford's work that treads very carefully through his family tales that always shows a love and affection towards those he jokes about. There's also a wide range of tales to keep all tastes happy - while his marriage material appeals to the couples in the audience, he embraces a wide demographic with his gags that leave nobody feeling left out.
Michael is a storyteller, but there are still plenty of punchlines throughout his set. Holford has the ability to make crowds of any age roar with laughter, and sends them away appreciating what good live comedy can do.
“He absolutely blew us away - great comedy and great entertainment” - Jesterval
“Just wasn’t expecting that, loved the passion and loved the delivery... we want him back” - Lindisfarne Festival
“Smashed it yet again. Great work!” - Punch Drunk Comedy

Si Beckwith
Si Beckwith is a stand-up comedian and writer from Newcastle Upon Tyne.
Si gigs regularly and prolifically, up and down the country, making sure to hone his craft on all manner of stages and is a respected, reliable and most importantly very funny stand-up comedian who has a creative approach to all he does.
Si has packed plenty in to a relatively short career, first performing at the Edinburgh Fringe in 2013 in a two-handed show. He was a Harrogate Comedian Of The Year finalist in 2016. His show ‘Get Lush’ received some excellent reviews in 2019 and 2020 for performances at both Alphabetti Theatre and The Stand, Newcastle. His most recent show ‘Bricks’ has been getting wonderful feedback from performances at Laurels Theatre and The Stand, Newcastle.
“Absurdly charming and funny” - NARC
“Razor sharp wit” - The Crack
“relaxes and charms, but watch out for his vicious undertow” - BBC

This show will also feature support from several new acts, and established acts performing new material.

Note: Line-ups are subject to change in extreme, and unavoidable, circumstances.
Show may contain strong language and adult themes.

Timings
Doors open: 7pm
Show starts: 7:30pm

Buy tickets:
Tickets for this show are £10 per person, with doors opening at 7pm and the show starting at 7:30pm. Tickets can be bought from the link below, See Tickets, TicketMaster, Skiddle, or contact the venue directly.

Hartlepool, March 15th 2024
2024-03-15 19:30 - 22:30 | Hartlepool Rugby Club, Mayfield Park, Easington Rd, Hartlepool, TS24 9BA, United Kingdom
Hilarity Bites Comedy Club feat. David Hadingham, Ashley Frieze, and host Chris Brooker
Show details:

David Hadingham
Like a mad Phil Daniels, Dave Hadingham is a bulldog of a comedian, and the animal allegories don't stop there. In an affectionately, snarling, ranting and raving set, Dave is not afraid to make you laugh about anything (remember the dogs).
At his best in the live arena, Dave has been a professional comic since May 1996. Intense and anecdotal, he keeps audiences hooked right up to the last punchline as he presents his unique and often warped view of everyday life.
This gravel-voiced comic combines supremely controlled delivery with inimitable facial contortions as he cracks some of the best handmade gags in the business.
Dave is a highly-regarded regular on the nationwide comedy circuit, headlining at all of the biggest clubs in the UK and also performing at resorts across Europe.
“ranting and raving comic genius” - The Guardian
“Hilariously funny with notable precision and charisma” - The Scotsman

Ashley Frieze
With his charming, daft, and warm brand of music-infused stand-up comedy, this guitar-toting funny man has been entertaining audiences across the UK for nearly 20 years. His original songs, with well-crafted lyrics and catchy tunes, span many genres from Jazz to Coldplay, via 1960's girl-group pop!
He regularly appears at comedy clubs around the country, and has been a resident MC at RipRoar and his own club. His YouTube channel contains original songs, parodies and other strange goings on.
Ashley has something for most audiences. Intelligent, geeky, silly, and occasionally naughty. He's a sharp, MC, and a powerhouse featured act appearing at theatres, comedy clubs, many many pub function rooms, festival stages, and even a moving bus! His solo Edinburgh Shows, The Seven Deadly Sings, and Discograffiti led to the release of his albums on all good streaming platforms (and many bad ones).
“brilliant quick-fire lyrics” - Three Weeks
“Certainly knew how to raise the big laughs” - Edinburgh Evening News
“...affords the show a feeling of quality” - Chortle

Chris Brooker
One of comedy’s heavy hitters, Chris Brooker’s infectious energy and enthusiasm sweeps through a room like an irresistible force. Chris’ combination of hilarious, original material and inspired improvisation means that you will never see the same routine twice. Immensely likeable, there’s no doubting his ability to win over any crowd and drag them along for the ride.
Described only half-accurately as comedy's ginger viking, Chris has taken his brand of comedy and compering all over the UK as well to the US and Canada. In 2008 he made history when he became the first foreign player to be chosen for the All-Star team at the ComedySportz World Championship in Portland, Oregon. Currently in high demand as an MC due to his ability to energise a room and think on his feet, Chris is also a polished performer with three full length solo shows under his belt. The most recent of which, Unstoppable, played to glowing reviews on both sides of the Atlantic.
“Very funny, very quick... On the spot humour” - BBC
“The best act of the night, his quick wit silencing hecklers and getting plenty of laughs” - Manchester Evening News
“A fitting finale, had the audience in stitches” - Student Online

This show will also feature a newer act in the middle.

Note: Line-ups are subject to change in extreme, and unavoidable, circumstances.
Show may contain strong language and adult themes.

Timings
Doors open: 7:30pm
Show starts: 8pm

Buy tickets:
Tickets for this show are £12 each and can be bought from the link below, or contact the venue directly.

Whitby, March 9th 2024
2024-03-09 19:00 - 22:30 | Coliseum Centre, Whitby, Coliseum Centre, Victoria Place, Whitby, YO21 1EZ, United Kingdom
Hilarity Bites presents Carl Hutchinson: Today Years Old
Show details:

Carl Hutchinson: Today Years Old
Hutchinson is back with a brand new show for 2024.
In what has quickly became an annual tradition, Carl is back for a third consecutive back-to-back tour.
His storytelling skills & ability to hold an audience is second to none. Rich in observations and exaggerated physical comedy, a night out with this Geordie is guaranteed to have you belly laughing from start to finish.
“Animated delivery of universally identifiable material all told with an easy, engaging charm” – Chortle
“Unexpected punchlines and occasional slapstick. A very clever mind at work here” – Fringe Review
Audience Reviews:
“The most relatable comic ever, great vibes” – ★★★★★
“There are some topics that shouldn’t be funny, but the way they’re told and put together is just brilliant” – ★★★★★
“Just so, so funny” – ★★★★★

Buy tickets:
Tickets for this show are £12 in advance, or £14 on the door, with doors opening at 7pm and the show starting at 7:30pm.
Tickets can be bought from the link below, See Tickets, TicketMaster, Skiddle, WeGotTickets, or contact the venue directly.

Thirsk, March 6th 2024
2024-03-06 19:00 - 22:00 | The Courthouse, Thirsk, The Old Courthouse, Westgate, Thirsk, North Yorkshire, YO7 1QS, United Kingdom
Hilarity Bites Comedy Club feat. Steve Day, Ant Dewson, and host Catherine Young
Show details:

Steve Day
Steve Day describes himself as Britains only deaf comedian, and if there are any others then he hasn't heard. Actually there are a couple of others who have started since he wrote that joke, but it's only a joke after all.
For the past dozen years Steve has been performing to huge laughter around the country and abroad - well, they tell him the laughter was huge to humour him, he doesn't know either way.
Married with five children (a fact nothing to do with not being able to hear the word 'No') Steve has been described as 'warm and witty' by the Scotsman and has received many other rave reviews whilst performing shows at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Chortle gave him five stars in 2007 for Deafy's Island Discs, a show The Sunday Times called 'Funny and Moving'.
“Revelatory and very funny” - The Guardian
“Warm, funny, frank and thought-provoking” - The Scotsman
“Wonderful” - Bath Chronicle

Ant Dewson
Ant Dewson performs at some of the top comedy clubs in the country, from The Stand in Edinburgh to Up The Creek and Angel in London, He’s shared the stage with some great comedians including Mickey Flanagan, Lee Mack and Noel Fielding. He’s also shared the stage with some right shockers, all of whom he is too polite to name here.
Ant is a regular on BBC Radio London and was the co-host of Carpet Martin’s Comedy Market on Riverside Radio. He also writes comedy for shows on BBC Radio 4 and Sky One.
After a recent Hilarity Bites show in Ripon, a member of the audience messaged him to say, “you even made my teenage daughter laugh which she hasn’t done since she hit puberty.”
“Genuinely funny... very clever... filthy” - Three Weeks
“Highlight of the night” - Tom Robinson, BBC 6Music
“A musical comedy feast” - ★★★★ - The Skinny

Catherine Young
Hilarity Bites New Act of the Year 2019
Winner of the Hilarity Bites New Act of the Year 2019, Catherine is quickly making a name for herself as one of the most exciting new acts to come out of the North-East in recent years.
Catherine occasionally absconds from Middlesbrough and the general misery of life, by running round the UK comedy circuit looking for anyone who will listen to her.
From North East and Irish decent, Catherine loves drinking, dancing and telling lies. Her comedy is light-hearted, full of mischievous stories and a warm and friendly humour that provides a short break from the stresses that life deals to us all.

Note: Line-ups are subject to change in extreme, and unavoidable, circumstances.
Show may contain strong language and adult themes.

Buy tickets:
Tickets for this show can be bought online at www.ruralarts.org, in person from The Old Courthouse, or telephone 01845 526536.

Ripon, March 5th 2024
2024-03-05 19:30 - 22:30 | Arts Hub, Ripon, 49a Allhallowgate, Ripon, North Yorkshire, HG4 1LQ, United Kingdom
Hilarity Bites Comedy Club feat. Nina Gilligan, Liam Pickford, and host Pete Otway
Show details:
Replacing Tez Ilyas:

Nina Gilligan
Chortle Best Club Comic 2023 - WinnerNorth West Comedian of the Year 2023 - WinnerLeicester Mercury Award 2021 - WinnerLiverpool Hot Water Comedian of the Year 2021 - WinnerEnglish Comedian of the Year - Finalist
Nina Gilligan is sometimes outrageous, always hilarious with a charming, loveable persona which belies an acerbic wit. Equally at home in clubs as art centre’s, Nina is performing at gigs of all sizes up and down the country.
2021 saw her crowned as the winner of the prestigious Leicester Mercury Award after also winning Liverpool Hot Water Comedian of the Year and being a finalist in English Comedian of The Year in previous year’s.
Recent work includes a sell-out show ‘Late Developer’ at Leicester Comedy Festival which transferred to The Edinburgh Fringe in 2022, whilst recent tour support includes Jason Manford, Clinton Baptiste and Rachel Fairburn.
“A bolshier Mrs Merton she’s not one to suffer fools lightly so watch out for a razor-sharp wit used at will” - The Skinny
“A hidden gem of the circuit” - Kiri Pritchard-McLean
“Naturally funny” - John Thomson (Cold Feet)

Liam Pickford
Well, what can we say about Liam? If Stewart Lee, Jack Dee and Morrissey ever had a child together then Liam is who they would call son. Liam started performing stand up in Manchester in June 2012. His unique style is a breath of fresh air to the circuit, with Liam crafting his own unique brand of stand up, mixing cleverly honed material and punchlines with excitingly unpredictable audience interaction. All this, mixed in with a hint of ‘whimsy’ and clever observations whilst delivered in a wonderfully unenthusiastic and grumpy style.
Liam has performed all over the UK and has appeared at numerous festivals including ‘Latitude’, ‘2000 Trees’ and ‘Cockrock’. In 2015, Liam performed his debut solo show ‘Seaside Cock Novelties’ to a sold out audience at the Liverpool Comedy Festival and then Liam returned in 2016 with his new solo show ‘Your Love Is Like A Knackered Bus Stop I Can No Longer Be Arsed To Vandalise’ which he also took to the Nottingham Comedy Festival that same year, and is available to buy on BandCamp.
“He’s got funny bones, and a scattergun mind that doesn’t quite work like anybody else’s” - Chortle

Pete Otway
Since starting to perform in 2010, Pete Otway has quickly gained momentum, establishing himself as an extremely strong new act. As comfortable and confident as an MC as he is an act, he is booked regularly to do both, and was a recent finalist in the 2012 BBC New Comedy Awards.
With an affable and conversational style, mixed with an energetic stage manner and original writing, Pete is quickly making a name for himself on the UK circuit, and is certainly one to watch.
“Devastatingly funny” - Chortle
“Amiable, cheeky classic stand-up” - Liverpool Echo
“An amazing comedy talent, and we are making sure we are making sure we follow his every move in his ever rising career” - Crispy Comedy Club

This show will also feature a newer act in the middle.

Note: Line-ups are subject to change in extreme, and unavoidable, circumstances.
Show may contain strong language and adult themes.

Timings
Doors open: 7:30pm
Show starts: 8pm

Buy tickets:
Tickets for this show are £10 per person, with doors opening at 7:30pm and the show starting at 8pm. Tickets can be bought from the link below, See Tickets, TicketMaster, Skiddle, or contact the venue directly.

Darlington, March 2nd 2024
2024-03-02 19:30 - 22:30 | The Forum, Darlington, The Forum, Borough Road, Darlington, DL1 1SG, United Kingdom
Hilarity Bites Comedy Club feat. Lou Conran, Jack Gleadow, Masai Graham & host Lee Kyle
Show details:

Lou Conran
Winner Best MC - 2020/21 Comics Comic AwardFunny Women Finalist - Best Show AwardRegular host of the BBC Radio 4 Extra Comedy Club
Having trained as an actress, Lou has appeared in various guises on tele and in the theatre, including, Pressgang (ITV), Jo Brand Through the Cakehole (Channel 4), The Borrowers (National Tour), numerous productions for the Edinburgh Festival and the more challenging and ground breaking role of Sara Bear, for three long series, in CITV's, classic and memorable, the "Teddybears". (No, no one else has heard of it either).
Lou is a regular tour support for the likes of Sarah Millican, Joe Lycett, John Bishop, Suzi Ruffell, and Lucy Beaumont amongst others. She is also one half of the award nominated podcast Spit or Swallow podcast, and the Tough Gig comedy podcast with her husband, fellow comic Eddy Brimson.
Lou's comedy career started back in the mid 90's, doing improv comedy with various groups in and around London. This has continued into the naughties with her move to Manchester, where she began her stand-up career in 2005. Having made the final of several new-act competitions in the mid naughties, she has continued to gig at many of the biggest clubs in the country as both an act and a compere. Lou is also a founder member of the Smirking Room comedy clubs in Manchester & Leeds where she comperes regularly.
“Naturally funny” - Sarah Millican
“Absolutely hilarious” - Chortle
“As filthy as she is fabulous, Lou Conran is a superlative storyteller” - Edinburgh Guide

Jack Gleadow
Leicester Mercury Comedian of the Year 2018Amused Moose National New Comic of the Year 2017Great Yorkshire Fringe Comedian of the Year 2017Hull Comedian of The Year 2016Comedy Cellar Comedian of The Year 2016Hilarity Bites New Act of The Year 2014
Multi-award winning stand-up comedian Jack Gleadow is one of the most unique performers on the UK comedy circuit today. He takes his inspiration from the golden era of variety; Jack is the One-Man Variety Show with the use of sounds, stories, jokes and a scooter!
In the words of Leicester Comedy Festival, after winning the prestigious 2018 Leicester Mercury Comedian of The Year award, "Jack bowled over the judges with his quirky set; a delightful blend of audience participation, wordplay and physical comedy".
Jack is in huge demand on the live comedy scene. As well as performing across the top UK comedy club such, Jack performed at the 2018 Edinburgh Fringe where he performed every day as part of the Pleasance Comedy Reserve. He has also been on the road as tour support for Lloyd Griffith, and featured at Latitude festival’s main comedy arena - to a mere 3,500 people!
“Star potential - The sky's the limit” - Beyond The Joke
“An absolute natural” - Chortle
“Laugh out loud funny” - The Scotsman

Masai Graham
Masai Graham is a multi award winning one-liner comedian who hails from the West Midlands.
The former Care worker turned comic has been writing and performing comedy for over a decade, winning accolades including ‘UK Pun Championship 2016, ‘Joke of the Fringe’ 2016 and 2022 (also bagging the unofficial lockdown Some-Bloke-Called-Dave Joke of the Fringe in 2021).
His comedy skills have seen him perform live from Singapore to Dublin. With 10 years of sell out shows at Edinburgh, Leicester and Brighton Fringes, and has led him to perform as tour support for Gary Delaney, Darren Harriott and Tez Ilyas as well as writing for TV shows.
Masai delivers genius one liners, puns and word play with his genuine charm and easy-flowing banter and with his reams of material from clean to naughty, he turns his razor-sharp joke writing skills to any subject.
“Annoyingly good gags and great stage presence” - Gary Delaney
“Audience admire the craftsmanship from this cheerful Black Country comic who skirts offence deftly” - Chortle
“The best ethnic comedian to emerge from the Black Country if you don’t include myself and Lenny Henry” - Darren Harriott

Lee Kyle
In his never ending quest not to have a proper job, Lee Kyle spent time as part of an all male Spice Girls tribute act before spending a decade as a professional wrestler.
Managing the difficult trick of being both odd and relatable, he did a show at the Edinburgh Fringe in 2013 that he heard was well received but he doesn't read reviews because his psyche is too fragile to handle them so he isn't totally sure what they said.
Armed with props and a rapid gag rate he cuts a confident, if off-beat figure on stage. His jokes veer between the clever and the silly and deliver more than their fair share of belly laughs.
“Had everyone on their feet - Sublimely ridiculous” - The Northern Echo
“A brilliant performance.. Pure genius!” - NARC Magazine
“Quirky and original - the highlight of the night” - Giggle Beats

Note: Line-ups are subject to change in extreme, and unavoidable, circumstances.
Show may contain strong language and adult themes.

Timings
Doors open: 7:30pm
Show starts: 8pm

Buy tickets:
Tickets for this show are £12 each. Tickets can be bought from the link below, See Tickets, TicketMaster, Skiddle, or contact the venue directly.

Topcliffe, February 29th 2024
2024-02-29 19:30 - 22:30 | The Angel at Topcliffe, The Angel at Topcliffe, Long Street, Topcliffe, YO7 3RW, United Kingdom
Hilarity Bites Comedy Club feat. Roger Monkhouse, Duncan Oakley, and host Sully O’Sullivan
Show details:

Roger Monkhouse
Roger Monkhouse is one of the most original and distinctive acts on the comedy scene. A consummate stand-up who employs a deadly combination of charm and menace to exert a masterful control over any audience. A highly original and quirky performer, Roger’s trademark stage-prowling style and curious, inimitable manner have established him as one of the hottest names on the comedy circuit.
Distinguished as a comic by his eloquence and keen eye for a fine phrase, Roger’s easy observational style is spiked by the signal flares of an accomplished gag writer. A supremely confident compere and seasoned corporate host, Roger is happy to improvise freely with a crowd and is at great ease bantering with an audience, but has no shortage of first class observational material in his armoury.
As one of the most sought after acts on the comedy circuit, Roger headlines at all the major comedy venues and has performed extensively throughout the United Kingdom and Internationally, most recently performing in Belgium, The Netherlands, South Africa, China, Singapore, Tokyo and the Middle East. He has also featured on major national tours of the UK sponsored by Hooch and J2O.
A fine topical writer and performer, and master of sharp observational comedy, Roger is a regular member of the prestigious and critically acclaimed ‘Cutting Edge’ team at the London Comedy Store.
“unfailingly entertaining and skilfully able to pull punchlines, seemingly, out of thin air” - Chortle
“his laconic delivery shields an engaging persona and an enquiring mind” - The Guardian

Duncan Oakley
Award-winning comedy songwriter Duncan Oakley has been performing on the UK club and festival circuit since 1999. In that time Duncan has appeared on BBC3, Channel 4 and BBC Radio 4 as well as having a lead role as Eddie in Beat 24's feature film Frontman (a film that won awards but sadly never achieved major release despite Oakley being brilliant in it).
Proudly childlike, musical comedian Duncan Oakley can be playful and daft but is always infectiously funny.
Expect big laughs from your inner oaf.
“Leaping between stupidity and pure brilliance” - Yorkshire Evening Post
“Oakley's routine deftly mixes the tunes with the stand-up” - City Life
“Brilliant. A true, funny entertainer” - BAFTA winner Dave Johns

Sully O'Sullivan
Sully O'Sullivan has been declared a highlight of the New Zealand International Comedy Festival by The NZ Herald, a highlight of the Glasgow International Comedy Festival by The Scotsman, featured on Australian TV’s The Comedy Channel, hosted a sellout standup tour of Croatia, won Canada’s annual Improvaganza Tournament, and completed 2 UK national tours supporting cult Heavy Metal Comic Steve Hughes.
First stepping onto a standup stage in June 1998, Sully's talent gained instant recognition as he won his first national standup award less than 12 months later. 9 years on he’s featured in four seasons of New Zealand’s award winning TV standup showcase 'Pulp Comedy', been nominated for the NZ Comedy Industry's supreme award by the NZ Comedy Trust, and nominated by his fellow performers for the title of NZ's Best MC.
“Amazing” - NME
“A blast of hilarity” - Manchester Evening News
“A wicked sense of humour” - BBC

This show will also feature a newer act in the middle.

Note: Line-ups are subject to change in extreme, and unavoidable, circumstances.
Show may contain strong language and adult themes.

Timings
Doors open: 7:30pm
Show starts: 8pm

Buy tickets:
Tickets for this show are £10 per person if bought in advance, or £12 on the day. Tickets can be bought from the link below, See Tickets, TicketMaster, Skiddle, or contact the venue directly.

Husthwaite, February 29th 2024
2024-02-29 19:30 - 22:30 | Husthwaite Village Hall, The Nookin, Husthwaite, North Yorkshire, YO61 4PY, United Kingdom
Hilarity Bites Comedy Club feat. Duncan Oakley, Roger Monkhouse, and host Carl Jones
Show details:

Duncan Oakley
Award-winning comedy songwriter Duncan Oakley has been performing on the UK club and festival circuit since 1999. In that time Duncan has appeared on BBC3, Channel 4 and BBC Radio 4 as well as having a lead role as Eddie in Beat 24's feature film Frontman (a film that won awards but sadly never achieved major release despite Oakley being brilliant in it).
Proudly childlike, musical comedian Duncan Oakley can be playful and daft but is always infectiously funny.
Expect big laughs from your inner oaf.
“Leaping between stupidity and pure brilliance” - Yorkshire Evening Post
“Oakley's routine deftly mixes the tunes with the stand-up” - City Life
“Brilliant. A true, funny entertainer” - BAFTA winner Dave Johns

Roger Monkhouse
Roger Monkhouse is one of the most original and distinctive acts on the comedy scene. A consummate stand-up who employs a deadly combination of charm and menace to exert a masterful control over any audience. A highly original and quirky performer, Roger’s trademark stage-prowling style and curious, inimitable manner have established him as one of the hottest names on the comedy circuit.
Distinguished as a comic by his eloquence and keen eye for a fine phrase, Roger’s easy observational style is spiked by the signal flares of an accomplished gag writer. A supremely confident compere and seasoned corporate host, Roger is happy to improvise freely with a crowd and is at great ease bantering with an audience, but has no shortage of first class observational material in his armoury.
As one of the most sought after acts on the comedy circuit, Roger headlines at all the major comedy venues and has performed extensively throughout the United Kingdom and Internationally, most recently performing in Belgium, The Netherlands, South Africa, China, Singapore, Tokyo and the Middle East. He has also featured on major national tours of the UK sponsored by Hooch and J2O.
A fine topical writer and performer, and master of sharp observational comedy, Roger is a regular member of the prestigious and critically acclaimed ‘Cutting Edge’ team at the London Comedy Store.
“unfailingly entertaining and skilfully able to pull punchlines, seemingly, out of thin air” - Chortle
“his laconic delivery shields an engaging persona and an enquiring mind” - The Guardian

Carl Jones
Midlands comic Carl Jones first hit the circuit in 2011, winning the Nottingham Comedy Festival Best Newcomer in his first handful of gigs. Since then, he’s performed and written for the BBC’s comedy output and is a regular at some of the top comedy clubs across the UK.
With a growing reputation as an engaging storytelling comedian and welcoming MC who is able to play a variety of rooms, he is a regular opener, middle, closer and host for a wide range of comedy clubs of all sizes across the UK.
A huge football fan, he’s also released two books about the beautiful game and can be heard interviewing comedy pals on his own Premier League nostalgia podcast When Football Began Again.
“Very funny... a breezily entertaining half-hour from a likeable comic” - Chortle
“The audience loved him from start to finish. His natural comic story-telling ability had them hanging on every word” - Hot Water Comedy
“From the moment he came to the microphone, he made the audience feel at home. Sharp, quick on his feet and completely good-natured, Carl set the audience up for a great night of comedy. Would highly recommend him as an MC for any occasion” - Stand Up at The Studio

This show will also feature a newer act in the middle.

Note: Line-ups are subject to change in extreme, and unavoidable, circumstances.
Show may contain strong language and adult themes.

Timings
Doors open: 7:30pm
Show starts: 8pm

Buy tickets:
Tickets for this show are £10 each and can be bought from the link below, or contact the venue directly.

Malton, February 23rd 2024
2024-02-23 19:30 - 22:00 | Milton Rooms, Malton, 2-4 Market Place, Malton, YO17 7LX, United Kingdom
Hilarity Bites Comedy Club feat. Steve Day, Ashley Frieze, and host Carl Jones
Show details:

Steve Day
Steve Day describes himself as Britains only deaf comedian, and if there are any others then he hasn't heard. Actually there are a couple of others who have started since he wrote that joke, but it's only a joke after all.
For the past dozen years Steve has been performing to huge laughter around the country and abroad - well, they tell him the laughter was huge to humour him, he doesn't know either way.
Married with five children (a fact nothing to do with not being able to hear the word 'No') Steve has been described as 'warm and witty' by the Scotsman and has received many other rave reviews whilst performing shows at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Chortle gave him five stars in 2007 for Deafy's Island Discs, a show The Sunday Times called 'Funny and Moving'.
“Revelatory and very funny” - The Guardian
“Warm, funny, frank and thought-provoking” - The Scotsman
“Wonderful” - Bath Chronicle

Ashley Frieze
With his charming, daft, and warm brand of music-infused stand-up comedy, this guitar-toting funny man has been entertaining audiences across the UK for nearly 20 years. His original songs, with well-crafted lyrics and catchy tunes, span many genres from Jazz to Coldplay, via 1960's girl-group pop!
He regularly appears at comedy clubs around the country, and has been a resident MC at RipRoar and his own club. His YouTube channel contains original songs, parodies and other strange goings on.
Ashley has something for most audiences. Intelligent, geeky, silly, and occasionally naughty. He's a sharp, MC, and a powerhouse featured act appearing at theatres, comedy clubs, many many pub function rooms, festival stages, and even a moving bus! His solo Edinburgh Shows, The Seven Deadly Sings, and Discograffiti led to the release of his albums on all good streaming platforms (and many bad ones).
“brilliant quick-fire lyrics” - Three Weeks
“Certainly knew how to raise the big laughs” - Edinburgh Evening News
“...affords the show a feeling of quality” - Chortle

Carl Jones
Midlands comic Carl Jones first hit the circuit in 2011, winning the Nottingham Comedy Festival Best Newcomer in his first handful of gigs. Since then, he’s performed and written for the BBC’s comedy output and is a regular at some of the top comedy clubs across the UK.
With a growing reputation as an engaging storytelling comedian and welcoming MC who is able to play a variety of rooms, he is a regular opener, middle, closer and host for a wide range of comedy clubs of all sizes across the UK.
A huge football fan, he’s also released two books about the beautiful game and can be heard interviewing comedy pals on his own Premier League nostalgia podcast When Football Began Again.
“Very funny... a breezily entertaining half-hour from a likeable comic” - Chortle
“The audience loved him from start to finish. His natural comic story-telling ability had them hanging on every word” - Hot Water Comedy
“From the moment he came to the microphone, he made the audience feel at home. Sharp, quick on his feet and completely good-natured, Carl set the audience up for a great night of comedy. Would highly recommend him as an MC for any occasion” - Stand Up at The Studio

Note: Line-ups are subject to change in extreme, and unavoidable, circumstances.
Show may contain strong language and adult themes.

Timings
Doors open: 7:30pm
Show starts: 8pm

Buy tickets:
Tickets for this show are £10 per person and are only available to buy from TicketSource. Click here to buy tickets.

Bishop Auckland, February 16th 2024
2024-02-16 19:30 - 22:30 | Bishop Auckland Town Hall, Bishop Auckland Town Hall, Market Place, Bishop Auckland, DL14 7NP, United Kingdom
Hilarity Bites Comedy Club feat. Mick Neven, Fran Garrity, and host Nicky Wilkinson
Show details:

Mick Neven
One of Australia’s busiest comedians, Mick is just as comfortable on-stage at the biggest comedy clubs and corporate functions in the city, and the smallest venues and sporting clubs in the country.
His material is observant, sharp and satirical, highlighting the foibles of modern life in a likeable and relatable fashion. Intelligent, hilarious and always good-natured, delivered with high-energy and a never-ending stream of punchlines that continually take his jokes to the next level.
With 15 years as a stand-up comedian under his belt, Mick now headlines all of the major comedy clubs in Australia, as well as throughout Asia. He’s performed two solo shows at the Edinburgh Fringe, seven Melbourne International Comedy Festival solo shows and he’s completed three tours of duty to entertain Australian, UK, US and Canadian Armed Forces personnel serving in the Middle East.
“Mick Neven’s stand-up is so slick... he’s seriously entertaining” - The Age
“He delivers a performance with punch, humour and a heart” - The Herald Sun
“Hang on to your seatbelts, it’s a rollercoaster Wizard of a ride from Oz” - The International Times

Fran Garrity
One of Teesside’s finest comedic exports of recent years, Fran Garrity kicked off his comedy career in 2015 after becoming a finalist in the City Comedian of the Year & FAF Breakthrough Act competitions.
Often heard on the airwaves of both national and regional radio, Fran has featured on such shows as BBC Radio 4’s New Comedy Awards and BBC Radio Newcastle’s features Jesting About and Grin up North, whilst also presenting a weekend show on Zetland FM.
In 2017, Fran was chosen for a support slot with Jason Manford on his Muddle Class Tour, and later that year he debuted his solo show Secret Agent Fran and became a finalist in the Harrogate Comedian of the Year.
He had a sell-out run for Best In Class at the 2019 Edinburgh Fringe Festival, and has had three sell-out solo shows with the shows Secret Agent Fran, Faith Hope & Garrity, and new show Fifty/50.
“He smashed it” - Jason Manford
“Fran is a real act to watch out for” - NARC
“Fran Garrity has an easy and instant rapport with the audience and not only gets frequent laughs but also they are always big laughs” - Buzz Comedy

Nicky Wilkinson
Nicky Wilkinson has a warm, likeable, down-to-earth style of comedy that instantly puts audiences at ease. She was a regular on the stand-up circuit in the UK after reaching the finals of prestigious comedy competitions ‘So You Think You’re Funny’ and ‘New Act of the Year’ in 2013, and now lives in Australia.
In 2022, she was selected by Mary Tobin Presents to be a part of the hugely popular 'Best of the Edinburgh Fest' show at both Adelaide Fringe and Melbourne International Comedy Festival.
Her impressive stage presence, witty charm and considerable comedy performance experience are ensuring she moves quickly through the comedy ranks in Australia, making her ‘one to watch!’
Nicky is also one half of multi-award winning physical comedy duo, The Kagools, alongside Claire Ford. They have a unique brand of spontaneous, anarchic buffoonery that propels silent comedy into the 21st Century, touring extensively around the world with their critically acclaimed shows.
“Bright, effervescent & pleasantly filthy” - The Advertiser (Aus)
“Charming & charismatic” - The Wee Review
“Relatable, down to earth humour” - This is Radelaide
“Effortless likeability & excellent comic timing” - Chortle

This show will also feature a newer act in the middle.

Note: Line-ups are subject to change in extreme, and unavoidable, circumstances.
Show may contain strong language and adult themes.

Timings
Doors open: 7:30pm
Show starts: 8pm

Buy tickets:
Tickets for this show can be bought online at www.bishopaucklandtownhall.org.uk, in person from Bishop Auckland Town Hall, or telephone 03000 269 524.

Newton Aycliffe, February 15th 2024
2024-02-15 19:00 - 22:00 | Steam Machine Brewery, Newton Aycliffe, Steam Machine Brewing Co, 26 Northfield Way, Newton Aycliffe, DL5 6UF, United Kingdom
Hilarity Bitesize New Act & New Material Night, with Mick Neven, Patrick Draper, host Nicky Wilkinson & support
Show details:

Mick Neven
One of Australia’s busiest comedians, Mick is just as comfortable on-stage at the biggest comedy clubs and corporate functions in the city, and the smallest venues and sporting clubs in the country.
His material is observant, sharp and satirical, highlighting the foibles of modern life in a likeable and relatable fashion. Intelligent, hilarious and always good-natured, delivered with high-energy and a never-ending stream of punchlines that continually take his jokes to the next level.
With 15 years as a stand-up comedian under his belt, Mick now headlines all of the major comedy clubs in Australia, as well as throughout Asia. He’s performed two solo shows at the Edinburgh Fringe, seven Melbourne International Comedy Festival solo shows and he’s completed three tours of duty to entertain Australian, UK, US and Canadian Armed Forces personnel serving in the Middle East.
“Mick Neven’s stand-up is so slick... he’s seriously entertaining” - The Age
“He delivers a performance with punch, humour and a heart” - The Herald Sun
“Hang on to your seatbelts, it’s a rollercoaster Wizard of a ride from Oz” - The International Times

Patrick Draper
Since Patrick first nonchalantly ambled onto the stage in October 2011, he has cemented his place on the UK comedy circuit with a mixed bag of deadpan jokes, visual gags and songs.
After making it to the finals of the English Comedian Of The Year awards in 2015, Patrick then took his debut show, Absolutely Vacuous to the Edinburgh Fringe festival, where his laissez-faire hour of comedy received a “Highly Recommended Show” accolade from Fringe Review, amongst other glowing critiques. Patrick can now be found making people laugh in some of the most prestigious comedy clubs all over the UK
“His unenthusiastic style has a nice, unhurried rhythm...” - Chortle

Nicky Wilkinson
Nicky Wilkinson has a warm, likeable, down-to-earth style of comedy that instantly puts audiences at ease. She was a regular on the stand-up circuit in the UK after reaching the finals of prestigious comedy competitions ‘So You Think You’re Funny’ and ‘New Act of the Year’ in 2013, and now lives in Australia.
In 2022, she was selected by Mary Tobin Presents to be a part of the hugely popular 'Best of the Edinburgh Fest' show at both Adelaide Fringe and Melbourne International Comedy Festival.
Her impressive stage presence, witty charm and considerable comedy performance experience are ensuring she moves quickly through the comedy ranks in Australia, making her ‘one to watch!’
Nicky is also one half of multi-award winning physical comedy duo, The Kagools, alongside Claire Ford. They have a unique brand of spontaneous, anarchic buffoonery that propels silent comedy into the 21st Century, touring extensively around the world with their critically acclaimed shows.
“Bright, effervescent & pleasantly filthy” - The Advertiser (Aus)
“Charming & charismatic” - The Wee Review
“Relatable, down to earth humour” - This is Radelaide
“Effortless likeability & excellent comic timing” - Chortle

This show will also feature support from several new acts, and established acts performing new material.

Note: Line-ups are subject to change in extreme, and unavoidable, circumstances.
Show may contain strong language and adult themes.

Timings
Doors open: 7pm
Show starts: 7:30pm

Buy tickets:
Tickets for this show are £10 per person, with doors opening at 7pm and the show starting at 7:30pm. Tickets can be bought from the link below, See Tickets, TicketMaster, Skiddle, or contact the venue directly.

Horbury, February 9th 2024
2024-02-09 19:30 - 22:30 | Cluntergate Centre, Horbury, The Cluntergate Centre, Cluntergate, Horbury, Wakefield, WF4 5DA, United Kingdom
Hilarity Bites Comedy Club feat. Lost Voice Guy, Rob Rouse, Stephanie Laing, and host Katie Mulgrew
Show details:

Lee Ridley (Lost Voice Guy)
Britain's Got Talent winner - 2018
Lee Ridley AKA Lost Voice Guy may not be able to talk, but he definitely has something to say, and his comedy will leave you speechless.
Since making his first stand up performance in February 2012, Ridley has gained quite the reputation for being both very funny and very unique.
He's gigged across the country performing at clubs and small venues, and has warmed up at Tour shows for the likes of Ross Noble, Patrick Kielty, Jason Manford and Jason Cook.
In 2014 he won the BBC New Comedy Award and went on to became the winner of ITV’s highest rated show, Britain’s Got Talent, in 2018; the first comic ever to win the show.
Lee’s other credits include his own BBC Radio 4 sitcom, Ability, Live at the Apollo for BBC, and in late 2018 he completed a huge nationwide theatre tour before releasing his debut book in May 2019.
“Funny, personal, occasionally shocking and frequently mischievous” - The Independent
“Finding humour in strange places is one of Lost Voice Guy’s strengths” - The Guardian
“a show that will open your eyes, put fire in your belly and make you laugh guiltily at its frankness and levity” - ★★★★★ - Metro

Rob Rouse
Rob Rouse is a man who doesn't know the meaning of the word calm. Full of beans, Rob can't slow down, and why would he when he makes so many people laugh. Rob first made the leap into stand up comedy in the late 1990s, touring the university circuits. In 1998 he won the prestigious 'So You Think You're Funny' competition at the Edinburgh Festival.
As seen on Dave's One Night Stand, Celebrity Juice, 8 out of 10 Cats, The Friday Night Project, and much more, Rob is one of comedy’s most lively, loveable and dynamic performers.
Performing a rare club show, whilst in between tours, expect stories of his life as a father, his encounters with road-kill and his life as the beleaguered owner of the most spectacularly randy dog you’re ever likely to hear about...
“He’s a man with genuinely funny bones” - Sunday Times
“Rob Rouse is a born clown, a latter-day Stan Laurel” - Time Out
“Every single one of these everyday observations and shared recognitions is blown out of the mainstream by his electric-shock treatment of the material... You want to hug his brain for coming up with this stuff, even as you want to wash his mouth out with soap for saying it” - The Herald

Stephanie Laing
Goofy and peculiar, Stephanie Laing’s comedy is partway between the needy oddness of Maria Bamford and the upbeat affability of Josie Long. Her material is a mix of silliness, filth and unusual observations, underpinned by a disarming honesty which makes her seem charmingly vulnerable.
A regular on the circuit Stephanie has also become a stalwart of comedy festivals across the country having appeared at Brighton Fringe, Leicester Comedy Festival, York Comedy Festival, Bath Comedy Festival, Women in Comedy Festival as well as appearing at the Edinburgh Fringe every year since 2010. Not content with just performing in the UK Stephanie has also appeared at UCB in New York & The Laugh Factory in L.A.
Most recently in 2018 Stephanie took her solo show ‘Mad About The Boy’ to the Melbourne, Adelaide & Perth comedy festivals.
“Laing is a jovial, baby faced performer who comes across as utterly unencumbered, so it doesn’t especially feel like adult humour when it plainly is... Laing has a Sarah Millican-esque appeal” - Chortle
“Disgusting and delightful in equal measure. She is definitely one to watch” - Three Weeks
“Gloriously silly … wonderfully unpretentious” - Broadway Baby

Katie Mulgrew
Lancashire comedian, Katie Mulgrew really likes making people laugh. It’s kinda her thing. She gigs all over the country in comedy clubs doing just that, to mostly success. She also makes her Mum laugh loads.
She’s done lots of lovely things whilst being a comedian like being tour support for The Boy With Tape On His Face and Vikki Stone. She has written for The News Quiz and you can hear her dulcet Northern tones featured on the BBC Radio 2 documentary series, The History of British Comedy. She got to be very silly indeed on a couple of episodes of the CBBC show, The Dog Ate My Homework. She recently co-hosted a TV pilot on ITV2 called Lovefix.
Katie has performed three solo stand up shows at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and is currently working on her fourth show when she’s not consumed with trying to keep the human she has made alive.
“Mulgrew is an engaging, likeable presence who doesn’t struggle to hold the audience’s attention. This is a well-structured thoughtful show.. radiating warmth” - Chortle
“charmingly honest... delightfully tender and thoroughly entertaining” - The Skinny
“...honest, un-cynical comedy that’s rough around the edges but tremendously warm” - Three Weeks

Note: Line-ups are subject to change in extreme, and unavoidable, circumstances.
Show may contain strong language and adult themes.

Timings
Doors open: 7:30pm
Show starts: 8pm

Buy tickets:
Tickets for this show are £12.50 per person, and can be bought from the link below, See Tickets, TicketMaster, Skiddle, or contact the venue directly.

Darlington, February 8th 2024
2024-02-08 19:30 - 22:30 | The Forum, Darlington, The Forum, Borough Road, Darlington, DL1 1SG, United Kingdom
Hilarity Bites presents Anth Young: Forever Young
Show details:

Following the best part of a year spent supporting Carl Hutchinson on an extensive theatre tour of the UK (including a huge date at Darlington Hippodrome), Anth Young returns to The Forum in Darlington with a brand-new following his sell-out solo show in early 2022.
Join Anth for another hour of observational story telling as he discusses the aches and pains of getting older whilst still feeling child like, and more stories of parenthood and just how bad he is at it.
Featuring support from his namesake, the very funny Catherine Young.

“Delightfully blunt and immensely endearing” – BBC
“…he has long career ahead of him” – Broadway Baby

Recommended age 16+

Timings
Doors open: 7:30pm
Show starts: 8pm

Buy tickets:
Tickets for this show are £10 each. Tickets can be bought from the link below, See Tickets, TicketMaster, Skiddle, or contact the venue directly.

Sessay, February 7th 2024
2024-02-07 19:00 - 22:00 | Sessay Village Hall, Sessay, Thirsk, North Yorkshire, YO7 3BE, United Kingdom
Hilarity Bites Comedy Club feat. Steve Day, Howard Walker, and host Jon Pearson
Show details:

Steve Day
Steve Day describes himself as Britains only deaf comedian, and if there are any others then he hasn't heard. Actually there are a couple of others who have started since he wrote that joke, but it's only a joke after all.
For the past dozen years Steve has been performing to huge laughter around the country and abroad - well, they tell him the laughter was huge to humour him, he doesn't know either way.
Married with five children (a fact nothing to do with not being able to hear the word 'No') Steve has been described as 'warm and witty' by the Scotsman and has received many other rave reviews whilst performing shows at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Chortle gave him five stars in 2007 for Deafy's Island Discs, a show The Sunday Times called 'Funny and Moving'.
“Revelatory and very funny” - The Guardian
“Warm, funny, frank and thought-provoking” - The Scotsman
“Wonderful” - Bath Chronicle

Howard Walker
Hirsute, hospitable, and h-engaging, Howard hails from Yorkshire and proffers oodles of warmth with observations on everyday life. Comedy Cellar New Act Award winner and Hilarity Bites New Act of the Year finalist, with captivating stories he travels the UK to charm and entertain, and find the answer to the age old question; where can you find free parking after 6?
An imaginative storyteller, with a good sense of humour, he likes romantic walks on the beach, dining out, and likes to take any opportunity to pretend he's filling out an online dating profile.
“A natural stage presence, an instantly amenable demeanour, inventive imagery and the best comedic use of a Belgian place name even the most ardent chuckle chaser will ever hear” - Stagefright Comedy
“Howard Walker's oddly hilarious observations bring something different to any comedy programme” - Buzz Comedy
“You almost felt as if you had gone over to a friend’s house and met his really witty mate that could entertain you all night with human observations of the world” - www.ladiestakeon.co.uk

Jon Pearson
Jon began standup comedy in 2010, with his first performance at Birmingham’s Highlight Comedy Club. Cut to the present and Jon has become a regular face on the circuit, performing at prestigious clubs such as The Glee, The Boat Show & The Comedy Store, Jon’s career has even taken him overseas with performances in Spain, Norway and even as far away as Wigan (it is like being on another planet).
Jon is also a familiar face on at comedy festivals across the UK having taken three solo shows to the Leicester, Nottingham & Edinburgh festivals with the highlight of the all coming in the form of a sold out show at his home town Melton Theatre in Melton Mowbray.
Jon has also provided tour support for Darren Harriot on his UK 2018/2019 tour and Lucy Porter on her UK 2017 tour. Jon’s laid back storytelling has audiences hanging on his every word. With tales based around his own life experiences, his anecdotes are relatable and certain to have audiences in hysterics.
“Very tall and hugely funny” - Lucy Porter
“Brilliant” - Shropshire Star
“A natural ability for working an audience” - EdFringeReview.com

Note: Line-ups are subject to change in extreme, and unavoidable, circumstances.
Show may contain strong language and adult themes.

Timings
Doors open: 7pm
Show starts: 7:30pm

Buy tickets:
Tickets for this show are £10 each and can be bought from the link below, or contact the venue directly.

Ripon, February 6th 2024
2024-02-06 19:30 - 22:30 | Arts Hub, Ripon, 49a Allhallowgate, Ripon, North Yorkshire, HG4 1LQ, United Kingdom
Hilarity Bites Comedy Club feat. Bethany Black, Sian Davies, and host Sully O’Sullivan
Show details:
Replacing Joe McTernan:

Bethany Black
Bethany Black has been a professional stand-up comedian since 2004. Her debut show 'Beth Becomes Her' detailed the story of her being transgender, chronicling everything from her coming out through her transition and eventually falling in love. It was nominated for Best Debut at the Leicester Comedy Festival in 2008, eventually losing out to Sarah Millican.
Over the course of her career Beth has performed alongside some of the biggest names in comedy, including Alan Carr, Sarah Millican, Tim Minchin and Rhys Darby.
In late 2017 / early 2018 Beth filmed the role of Pocahantas for No Offence. Prior to which, in 2015 she was cast as Helen in Russell T. Davies multi channel shows Cucumber, Banana, and Tofu, where she was the first trans actress to play a leading role. In late 2015, Beth played 474 in Doctor Who.
“Her journey to Channel Four, ‘Doctor Who’ and steadily rising star status makes for hilarious if sometimes incredulous listening” - ✭✭✭✭✭ - Three Weeks
“Honest, to the point, and very, very funny” - ✭✭✭✭ - Arts Award Voice
“The anecdotes are pitched perfectly... very funny” - Chortle

Sian Davies
Sian Davies is a stand up comedian, MC, presenter, and comedy writer based in the north west of England.
She won the Hilarity Bites New Act of the Year competition in 2018, and was a finalist in Nando’s New Comedian and Harrogate Theatre Comedian of the Year competitions in 2017. She was also a northern finalist of the Funny Women stage award 2018, and selected to take part in the prestigious Circuit Breakers showcase at the Leicester Comedy Festival.
Sian took two compilation shows to the 2018 Edinburgh Fringe which were both well recieved and an unprecedented success. Comedy Queers, a late night LGBTQIA+ showcase which sold out almost every night of the festival and Best in Class, a crowd funded profit sharing show featuring working class comedians which attracted huge media attention and earned several 4 star reviews.
Away from stand-up, Sian has written for 'Newsjack' on BBC Radio 4 Extra, and had sketches featured on 'And Then She Said A Funny Thing' live performance podcast.
“Excellent compere” - The Scotsman
“Sharp and focused... fantastic ability as a comedian and compere” - ★★★★ - Backstage on the Fringe
“Warm hearted and engaging comedy” - ★★★★ - Deadline News

Sully O'Sullivan
Sully O'Sullivan has been declared a highlight of the New Zealand International Comedy Festival by The NZ Herald, a highlight of the Glasgow International Comedy Festival by The Scotsman, featured on Australian TV’s The Comedy Channel, hosted a sellout standup tour of Croatia, won Canada’s annual Improvaganza Tournament, and completed 2 UK national tours supporting cult Heavy Metal Comic Steve Hughes.
First stepping onto a standup stage in June 1998, Sully's talent gained instant recognition as he won his first national standup award less than 12 months later. 9 years on he’s featured in four seasons of New Zealand’s award winning TV standup showcase 'Pulp Comedy', been nominated for the NZ Comedy Industry's supreme award by the NZ Comedy Trust, and nominated by his fellow performers for the title of NZ's Best MC.
“Amazing” - NME
“A blast of hilarity” - Manchester Evening News
“A wicked sense of humour” - BBC

This show will also feature a newer act in the middle.

Note: Line-ups are subject to change in extreme, and unavoidable, circumstances.
Show may contain strong language and adult themes.

Timings
Doors open: 7:30pm
Show starts: 8pm

Buy tickets:
Tickets for this show are £10 per person, with doors opening at 7:30pm and the show starting at 8pm. Tickets can be bought from the link below, See Tickets, TicketMaster, Skiddle, or contact the venue directly.

Darlington, February 3rd 2024
2024-02-03 19:30 - 22:30 | The Forum, Darlington, The Forum, Borough Road, Darlington, DL1 1SG, United Kingdom
Hilarity Bites Comedy Club feat. Rob Deering, Phil Pagett, Jules O’Brian & host Danny Deegan
Show details:

Rob Deering
Rob Deering performs stand-up comedy with music, using a guitar, a loop pedal and his voice to create impressive rock and pop soundscapes – and do jokes, of course. Along with being one of the most in-demand headliners on the UK circuit, he’s toured nationally and performed solo shows at the Edinburgh Fringe many times since starting out in comedy in the year 2000.
Rob has performed throughout the world, in shows from the Middle East to Melbourne, Shanghai to the South of France, and he has appeared on any number of Radio and TV shows since starting out on 99 Things To Do Before You Die, most recently winning Celebrity Mastermind on BBC One.
“An evening in his company is nothing less than a joy” - The Independent on Sunday
“A highly impressive one-man soundscape powered mainly by energy and excellent guitar skills” - The Scotsman
“Ingenious and hilarious” - The Guardian

Phil Pagett
Phil Pagett is a professional comedian and joke-writer from Birmingham, described by Gary Delaney as "One of the country's best new gag writers".
Phil has been performing since 2010, and his act features a combination of one-liners and wry observations. In addition to live work he has written for Mock the Week and BBC Radio 4.
“Thoroughly enjoyable” - Notts Comedy Review
“Takes his audience on an amusingly clever ride” - Funhouse Comedy
“One of the country’s best new gag writers” - Gary Delaney

Jules O'Brian
Jules O’Brian first took to the stage in 2017, at a charity night in Birmingham. A keen fan of Rik Mayall, French and Saunders, Victoria Wood, and Joan Rivers, as well as Katherine Ryan, Tim Minchin, Amy Schumer, and Luisa Omielan, Jules states her stand-up style is “Butter wouldn’t melt meets Is That All There Is?” (a reference to the dark song made famous by singer Peggy Lee).
An English Tutor in her day life, Jules performed a sell-out ‘triple-header’ show at 2021’s Birmingham Comedy Festival, and in the sam year was shortlisted for the Funny Women award. Jules performs at venues and festivals around the country, telling anyone who will listen about ageing disgracefully, body hang-ups, parenting, and dating.
She is TalkTalk’s official voice – chosen by none other than the legend Bernard Cribbins – and her silly writings feature frequently in magazines including Prima and MamaLife. This former teacher’s relaxed and chatty style, crowd interaction and warmth, all served with a sardonic wit, make her a natural crowd pleaser.
“Slick writing with a twinkle in her eye” - Scott Bennett

Danny Deegan
Danny Deegan is a comedian, writer and actor who began performing in 2003 and has since risen steadily through the ranks of some of the most prestigious comedy clubs in the UK. His tales of mischief and the characters he creates have kept audiences all over the country enthralled as he weaves in and out of the people he has met travelling. His talent and likability coupled with a confident swagger see him as one of the most popular acts in the North.
Fresh from a successful run at the Edinburgh Fringe, where he received rave reviews, Danny also recently performed a headline set at the Green Man festival in South Wales getting a great reception from the 400 people in the marquee and being asked to wrap up for Manchester band Doves after their headline set in front of 12,000 people.
Outside of live work Danny has made several TV and radio appearances. From being a guest on Radio GMR to having his own show "Afternoons with Danny Deegan" on CAT FM in Crewe. His TV credits include appearances on "Made in the North" and "The Adam and Shelley Show" to name but two.
“His seamless interactions with the crowd demonstrate that he’s a natural-born comedian... appealing to both the young and old, female and male” - Three Weeks
“Charming, witty and most importantly funny” - Metro
“Deegan has a mature confidence in his abilities” - Chortle

Note: Line-ups are subject to change in extreme, and unavoidable, circumstances.
Show may contain strong language and adult themes.

Timings
Doors open: 7:30pm
Show starts: 8pm

Buy tickets:
Tickets for this show are £12 each. Tickets can be bought from the link below, See Tickets, TicketMaster, Skiddle, or contact the venue directly.

Hartlepool, February 1st 2024
2024-02-01 19:00 - 22:00 | Hops & Cheese, Hartlepool, 9-11 Tower Street, Hartlepool, TS24 7HH, United Kingdom
Hilarity Bitesize New Act & New Material Night, with Silky, Sean Moran, host Elaine Robertson & support
Show details:

Paul 'Silky' White
Silky has been a full time comedian since 1997. He did his first gig in 1994, and his fourth gig (the final of the 1995 BBC New Comedy Awards alongside Lee Mack, Daniel Kitson and Julian Barratt) was shown on BBC1’s Stand-Up Show. Other awards he has failed to win include the Leicester Mercury Comedian of the Year (prize-winning runner-up 2000), the Liverpool Echo Arts and Entertainment Award (the only person to be nominated twice: always the sodding bridesmaid).
Silky has performed internationally, including gigs in China, the Philippines, the Gulf, Singapore, the US, the Melbourne Comedy Festival, and all over Europe, including at the Glastonbury Festival, where no-one lobbed bottles of wee, much to his relief. He performed at the 2004 God’s Kitchen Global Gathering, the 2005 Big Bang at Santa Pod, and in the houseband for the Kilkenny Festival. Silky is also a regular at the Edinburgh Fringe, where he plays to full houses every year at The Stand Comedy Club.
“...a very, very funny fella... just brilliant” - John Bishop
“One of the comedy circuit’s most popular headliners... on the cusp of superstardom” - Yorkshire Life
“Among the best of the circuit... born funny” - City Life
“Always brilliant” - Metro

Sean Moran
Soon after starting stand-up comedy, Sean Moran gained a reputation as a writer of quality material, leading to interest from top comedy production company Babycow.
Placing third in the prestigious Leicester Mercury Comedian of the Year competition in 2007 cemented his reputation and since then he has been a regular on the national circuit.
He has performed sell-out solo shows, Wasted Youth, at the Manchester Comedy Festival in 2010, and Role Model at the Manchester Comedy Festival in 2015 and the Leicester Comedy Festival in 2016.
In addition to live work, Sean also appears regularly on BBC Radio and Great British Radio.
“Inventive material” - Manchester Evening News
“Killer wit” - Frog & Bucket
“Superbly misanthropic, terse, cynical and a brilliant writer - well worth seeing” - XS Malarkey

Elaine Robertson
With a surreal eye for observational comedy and keen knack for audience interaction, Elaine has been described as ‘Laugh out loud’, ‘Natural, effortless and off-the-cuff (The Cherwell) and a ‘Brilliant wit and comedic talent’ (Ed Fringe Review).
In 2022 Elaine was a Regional Finalist for BBC New Comedian of the Year.
“I’ve been doing comedy for over 20 years and it’s very rare that I see someone who was born to do it. Elaine is one such person. effortlessly hilarious with original material I wish I’d thought of myself. If she doesn’t do well it’s to the detriment of comedy” - Matt Reed
“A huge personality, Elaine has a quality that is very rare in new comedians, that being the ability to ad-lib and go with wherever the gig takes her. She's good now, very good in fact but she could well develop into a truly special comic” - Felt Nowt Comedy
“Laugh out loud, natural, effortless and off-the-cuff” - The Cherwell

This show will also feature support from several new acts, and established acts performing new material.

Note: Line-ups are subject to change in extreme, and unavoidable, circumstances.
Show may contain strong language and adult themes.

Timings
Doors open: 7pm
Show starts: 7:30pm

Buy tickets:
Tickets for this show are £10 per person, with doors opening at 7pm and the show starting at 7:30pm. Tickets can be bought from the link below, See Tickets, TicketMaster, Skiddle, or contact the venue directly.

Topcliffe, January 25th 2024
2024-01-25 19:30 - 22:30 | The Angel at Topcliffe, The Angel at Topcliffe, Long Street, Topcliffe, YO7 3RW, United Kingdom
Hilarity Bites Comedy Club feat. Lost Voice Guy, Katie Mulgrew, and host Dave Longley
Show details:

Lee Ridley (Lost Voice Guy)
Britain's Got Talent winner - 2018
Lee Ridley AKA Lost Voice Guy may not be able to talk, but he definitely has something to say, and his comedy will leave you speechless.
Since making his first stand up performance in February 2012, Ridley has gained quite the reputation for being both very funny and very unique.
He's gigged across the country performing at clubs and small venues, and has warmed up at Tour shows for the likes of Ross Noble, Patrick Kielty, Jason Manford and Jason Cook.
In 2014 he won the BBC New Comedy Award and went on to became the winner of ITV’s highest rated show, Britain’s Got Talent, in 2018; the first comic ever to win the show.
Lee’s other credits include his own BBC Radio 4 sitcom, Ability, Live at the Apollo for BBC, and in late 2018 he completed a huge nationwide theatre tour before releasing his debut book in May 2019.
“Funny, personal, occasionally shocking and frequently mischievous” - The Independent
“Finding humour in strange places is one of Lost Voice Guy’s strengths” - The Guardian
“a show that will open your eyes, put fire in your belly and make you laugh guiltily at its frankness and levity” - ★★★★★ - Metro

Katie Mulgrew
Lancashire comedian, Katie Mulgrew really likes making people laugh. It’s kinda her thing. She gigs all over the country in comedy clubs doing just that, to mostly success. She also makes her Mum laugh loads.
She’s done lots of lovely things whilst being a comedian like being tour support for The Boy With Tape On His Face and Vikki Stone. She has written for The News Quiz and you can hear her dulcet Northern tones featured on the BBC Radio 2 documentary series, The History of British Comedy. She got to be very silly indeed on a couple of episodes of the CBBC show, The Dog Ate My Homework. She recently co-hosted a TV pilot on ITV2 called Lovefix.
Katie has performed three solo stand up shows at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and is currently working on her fourth show when she’s not consumed with trying to keep the human she has made alive.
“Mulgrew is an engaging, likeable presence who doesn’t struggle to hold the audience’s attention. This is a well-structured thoughtful show.. radiating warmth” - Chortle
“charmingly honest... delightfully tender and thoroughly entertaining” - The Skinny
“...honest, un-cynical comedy that’s rough around the edges but tremendously warm” - Three Weeks

David Longley
One of the few comics able to play to any audience without compromising on his material, David Longley can delight a hen party and the comedy connoisseur on the same night. Intelligent, silly, thought-provoking and filthy, Longley has found himself headlining comedy clubs all over the country and is also in demand as an MC.
Longley’s towering stage presence and intensity, combined with his cutting wit have made him one of the most popular and controversial circuit comics in the UK, whether it’s doling out thought-provoking insights or revelling in toilet humour, Longley is a gifted wordsmith with great audience interaction skills.
As well as being a great addition to any club line up, David had also written and performed four full length festival solo shows at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, each one greeted with critical acclaim. Additionally, David has featured as a writer on 8 Out of 10 Cats, amongst a variety of genres, and is currently working on sitcom, drama and documentary script
“Acid tongued and as sharp as a barrel full of tacks... As intense and intelligent performer as you’re likely to see” - The List
“Highly original and bloody funny” - Three Weeks
“David seems to be actually driven by the material and, say it quietly, the art... challenges both himself and the audience. AND HE IS FUNNY” - Baby Cow

This show will also feature a newer act in the middle.

Note: Line-ups are subject to change in extreme, and unavoidable, circumstances.
Show may contain strong language and adult themes.

Timings
Doors open: 7:30pm
Show starts: 8pm

Buy tickets:
Tickets for this show are £10 per person if bought in advance, or £12 on the day. Tickets can be bought from the link below, See Tickets, TicketMaster, Skiddle, or contact the venue directly.

Darlington, January 25th 2024
2024-01-25 19:30 - 22:30 | The Forum, Darlington, The Forum, Borough Road, Darlington, DL1 1SG, United Kingdom
Connor Burns: Vertigo
Show details:

Hot on the heels of Connor’s outstanding 2023 Edinburgh Fringe season which saw him add 8 extra performances to his 4 week run (just a week after the programme launch due to the huge ticket presales for what was only his second-ever Fringe) and an incredible 6 sold-out Glasgow Stand shows – the show premiered at the city’s International Comedy Festival, as the shows kept selling out, more and more extra dates were added – don’t miss Scotland’s fastest rising comedy star’s brilliant new show – on tour!
Connor has also sold-out multiple solo shows across Australia, in 2022 touring Down Under an unprecedented three times in the same year. In addition to his own tour shows, he supported international stand-up tour ‘Daniel Sloss: CAN’T’ (opening for Daniel in huge theatres) and closed the Sydney Comedy Festival gala at the Sydney Opera House. He’s already taped a set for Just For Laughs and is currently shortlisted for their prestigious “New faces” in Montreal in 2023.
Vertigo is a punchline-packed show featuring ugly dogs, relationships, and the inevitable family drama. Hilarious, relatable, a bit rude in places of course and all-the-while served up with superb material, brilliant delivery and proper belly laughs.
This is Connor’s first UK tour and we are delighted to welcome him to The Forum in Darlington. If you love live comedy, then we recommend you check out this fantastic show. Support an exciting comedian and budding superstar early days – and remember where you saw him first!
Special Guest support, TBC.

“If you want to see the future of Scottish stand-up, then see Connor Burns live – while you can still get a ticket” – Daniel Sloss
“Mark him out as one to watch” – The Scotsman
“Absolutely cracking… great material with fantastic execution” – The Stand
“Vertigo. A sensation of whirling and loss of balance” – Oxford English Dictionary

WARNING: AGE RESTRICTION 14+ / RECOMMENDATION 16+ , SOME STRONG LANGUAGE

Timings
Doors open: 7:30pm
Show starts: 8pm

Buy tickets:
Tickets for this show are £10 each. Tickets can be bought from the link below, See Tickets, TicketMaster, Skiddle, or contact the venue directly.

Bishop Auckland, January 19th 2024
2024-01-19 19:30 - 22:30 | Bishop Auckland Town Hall, Bishop Auckland Town Hall, Market Place, Bishop Auckland, DL14 7NP, United Kingdom
Hilarity Bites Comedy Club feat. Joe McTernan, Peter Brush, and host Jon Pearson
Show details:

Joe McTernan
Joe has gained over 40 million views on his socials with his character based sketches and with over 200,000 followers, Joe is an online sensation.
His 2023 Edinburgh Fringe show was a complete sell out run with 4 and 5 star reviews. Meanwhile, he's performed on BBC Scotland's television show The Comedy Underground, supported Tom Stade and Rachel Fairburn on tour, co-created the online (Scottish Comedy Award-winning) sitcom MUFF alongside Daniel Sloss, and has also written and performed content for BBC Short Stuff.
“I was crying with laughter pretty much throughout the entire performance” - ★★★★★ - Three Weeks
“Joe entertained us to a jam packed hour of great comedy material” - ★★★★ - One4Review
“His punchlines hit home, providing a laid back perspective on what can be decisive topics... sure to delight with his amusing frustration” - ★★★★ - EdFest Magazine

Peter Brush
A highly distinctive performer and deft writer of finely crafted jokes, Peter Brush unassumingly takes the stage with his slight bespectacled frame and scruffy hair, before consummately conquering it with an arsenal of razor sharp quirky one-liners and peerlessly original routines, all delivered in an amusingly awkward fashion.
Peter performs at all the major clubs across the UK, as well as having done many of it’s biggest festivals, he has also played shows in Switzerland, Norway and Hungary. Formerly a BBC New Comedy Award finalist, he has written for several BBC Radio 4 shows and was the support act for Alexei Sayle’s most recent tour. Other acts he has supported on tour include Jonathan Pie, Jason Manford, Fern Brady, Arthur Smith and Paul Sinha.
“compellingly hilarious... first-class gag writing... an original and achingly funny voice” - ★★★★½ - Chortle
“I love Peter Brush, what a comic” - Jason Manford
“unique observations and connections that stand-ups crave” - The Guardian
“He’s a great comic” - BBC Radio 4 Saturday Review

Jon Pearson
Jon began standup comedy in 2010, with his first performance at Birmingham’s Highlight Comedy Club. Cut to the present and Jon has become a regular face on the circuit, performing at prestigious clubs such as The Glee, The Boat Show & The Comedy Store, Jon’s career has even taken him overseas with performances in Spain, Norway and even as far away as Wigan (it is like being on another planet).
Jon is also a familiar face on at comedy festivals across the UK having taken three solo shows to the Leicester, Nottingham & Edinburgh festivals with the highlight of the all coming in the form of a sold out show at his home town Melton Theatre in Melton Mowbray.
Jon has also provided tour support for Darren Harriot on his UK 2018/2019 tour and Lucy Porter on her UK 2017 tour. Jon’s laid back storytelling has audiences hanging on his every word. With tales based around his own life experiences, his anecdotes are relatable and certain to have audiences in hysterics.
“Very tall and hugely funny” - Lucy Porter
“Brilliant” - Shropshire Star
“A natural ability for working an audience” - EdFringeReview.com

This show will also feature a newer act in the middle.

Note: Line-ups are subject to change in extreme, and unavoidable, circumstances.
Show may contain strong language and adult themes.

Timings
Doors open: 7:30pm
Show starts: 8pm

Buy tickets:
Tickets for this show can be bought online at www.bishopaucklandtownhall.org.uk, in person from Bishop Auckland Town Hall, or telephone 03000 269 524.

Ripon, January 9th 2024
2024-01-09 19:30 - 22:30 | Arts Hub, Ripon, 49a Allhallowgate, Ripon, North Yorkshire, HG4 1LQ, United Kingdom
Hilarity Bites Comedy Club feat. Eddy Brimson, Don Biswas, and host Cal Halbert
Show details:

Eddy Brimson
Since turning to comedy in 1999, Eddy Brimson has well and truly established himself on the live circuit and is regarded by some as one of the leading headline comics in British comedy and the world. His career has even taken him from Dundee to Dubai!
To say Eddy has a colourful past is something of an understatement. A self-confessed former football hooligan before turning his hands to better use as a writer and comedian, Eddy has written a host of amusing anecdotal books, penned and hosted a top three selling video ‘Teargas and Tantrums’, and is also a regular “talking head’ for numerous radio and TV shows on subjects as diverse as football, dodgy builders and sexy baldness.
He’s appeared on television in many different guises from Hari Krishna in both Smith & Jones and Heartburn Hotel, to hard-nosed Villain in Eastenders, where he turned over Frank Butchers car lot! Other appearances include Absolutely Fabulous, The Thin Blue Line and Hale & Pace, The Bill, Silent Witness, Casualty, Between The Lines and the HBO movie The Infiltrator where he played a leading gang member.
Eddy is also a regular radio contributor to shows on BBC Radio 5 and Talksport and also a prolific writer, having penned seven best-selling books. With sales topping 160,000, Eddy has built himself a cult following among British and European football fans. In short, this is one gifted and hilarious performer.
“The crowd loved him” - The Guardian
“Quite simply brilliant” - Sky
“Engaging and Compelling, Brimson doesn’t f*@k about” - Three Weeks

Don Biswas
Don Biswas is one of the gems of the circuit. A politically charged gag merchant who likes to cover a wide range of subjects including his Asian upbringing, his neuro-diversity as someone with dyspraxia, ADHD, and ASD and even the most important of topics... conspiracy theories. Don has gained huge admiration from all corners of the circuit for his breadth of material and his passionate delivery, making him a regular face in comedy clubs across the UK.
Away from the live circuit, Don recently recorded a comedy special for BBC Radio 4 entitled ‘Neurotopical’ and has appeared on Radio 4’s 13 Million Club, Rosie Jones’s Boxticker as well as UKTV Digitals Rosie Jones’s Disabled Comedy Extravaganza, and BBC Onlines Future Food Stars.
Don's unique style has seen him support John Williams on tour, perform in the USA (Silicon Valley & New York) & Switzerland
“A phenomenal gag teller with an engaging stage persona, Don Biswas shows all the signs of a truly great comic” - Broadway Baby
“Don Biswas put more emphasis on slick one-liners, which made much of his Asperger’s and Asian background” - London is Funny
“His fresh takes on current affairs are consistently hilarious. This will be the first time many audience members would have laughed with, and not at, a conspiracy theorist” - Hecklers Comedy Club

Cal Halbert
Deemed 'the new generation of comedy' by Michael McIntyre, Cal Halbert has performed from local comedy clubs to the London Palladium, Britain's Got Talent to Good Morning Britain and voiced for YouTube to the BBC.
Well known as an impressionist, Halbert is one half of 'The Mimic Men', the UK's only impressionist double act! The Mimic Men appeared on Britain's Got Talent in 2016, gaining four yeses accompanied by a standing ovation by the judges, audience, and Ant and Dec.
“Very good” - Simon Cowell
“Uncanny imitations” - The Sun
“Impersonator genius” - Sunderland Echo

This show will also feature a newer act in the middle.

Note: Line-ups are subject to change in extreme, and unavoidable, circumstances.
Show may contain strong language and adult themes.

Timings
Doors open: 7:30pm
Show starts: 8pm

Buy tickets:
Tickets for this show are £10 per person, with doors opening at 7:30pm and the show starting at 8pm. Tickets can be bought from the link below, See Tickets, TicketMaster, Skiddle, or contact the venue directly.
