Ripon, June 3rd 2025
2025-06-03 19:30 - 22:30 UTC | Arts Hub, Ripon, 49a Allhallowgate, Ripon, North Yorkshire, HG4 1LQ, United Kingdom
Hilarity Bites Comedy Club feat. Dave Longley, Si Beckwith, and host Al Stevenson
Show details:

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

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

Al Stevenson
Al Stevenson is the quick-witted, sharp-tongued lad of Newcastle!
His charm allows him to tear through audiences with rapid fire, all whilst getting away with it through a cheeky grin.
Although he is newer on the circuit, his talents have already seen him rise to the finals of Beat The Frog World Series, beating hundreds of acts to do so, and to host and headline prestigious venues such as The Stand Comedy Club in Newcastle.
His humour has caught the eye of his fellow comics, leading to him performing tour support spots for Mark Nelson, Lauren Pattison, Matt Reed, and even international comic Kevin James Thornton!
“Al Stevenson combines the blunt double-entendres of Julian Clary with the bored, world-weariness of Jo Brand” - Chortle
“Blisteringly confident and deliriously lurid crowd work” - NARC
“Destined to be a stand up comic” - Lost Voice Guy

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, June 7th 2025
2025-06-07 19:30 - 22:30 | The Forum, Darlington, The Forum, Borough Road, Darlington, DL1 1SG, United Kingdom
Hilarity Bites Comedy Club feat. Nick Doody, Al Stevenson, Seeta Wrightson, and host Danny Deegan
Show details:

Nick Doody
Dave Gorman tour support
Nick Doody has been performing comedy since the 90s when, as a student, he got off to a pretty good start by supporting the legendary Bill Hicks, at Bill's request. A little later, Nick was a finalist in Channel 4's So You Think You're Funny? competition.
Since then he has performed all over the world: Ireland, France, Spain, Switzerland, Germany, The Netherlands, Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Hong Kong, Thailand, Malaysia, Estonia... You get the idea. He was the first British comedian to perform in Croatia.
Nick has appeared on various radio and TV shows, and is also much in demand as a writer. He has penned jokes for Joan Rivers, Lenny Henry, Dame Edna Everage and an uncomfortable number of Mock The Week regulars. He was also the creator and head writer of Bigipedia, a critically acclaimed Radio 4 show that broadcast in 2009 and 2011.
In 2006, Nick performed his first solo Edinburgh Festival show, Before He Kills Again. The show received rave reviews and sold out for the whole festival, leading to a run at the Soho Theatre. Since then, Nick has written and performed another six solo hours of stand-up, including the most honest title ever to appear on a poster, Look At This Massive Picture Of My Face.
“All hail Nick Doody... true comedy gold: polished, rich in material and a find among all the fools” - Metro
“This is simply the best unadulterated, gimmick-free hour of pure stand-up I’ve seen so far this Fringe” - Chortle
“A no-nonsense stand up comic who is genuinely funny” - Three Weeks

Al Stevenson
Al Stevenson is the quick-witted, sharp-tongued lad of Newcastle!
His charm allows him to tear through audiences with rapid fire, all whilst getting away with it through a cheeky grin.
Although he is newer on the circuit, his talents have already seen him rise to the finals of Beat The Frog World Series, beating hundreds of acts to do so, and to host and headline prestigious venues such as The Stand Comedy Club in Newcastle.
His humour has caught the eye of his fellow comics, leading to him performing tour support spots for Mark Nelson, Lauren Pattison, Matt Reed, and even international comic Kevin James Thornton!
“Al Stevenson combines the blunt double-entendres of Julian Clary with the bored, world-weariness of Jo Brand” - Chortle
“Blisteringly confident and deliriously lurid crowd work” - NARC
“Destined to be a stand up comic” - Lost Voice Guy

Seeta Wrightson
2025 Female Pilot Club Winner and BBC New Comedy Awards semi-finalist, Seeta Wrightson is a Bradford-born comedian known for her sharp wit and engaging stories. Wrightson’s work often draws on her dual Asian and British heritage.
From humble (AKA very skint) beginnings growing up in Bradford, Seeta has wandered through life wondering where exactly she fits and has had a hell of an adventure figuring it out. And it is a never-ending stream of ridiculousness that provides the fodder for her comedy.
“She has jokes as fierce as her outfits. Love her” - Kiri Pritchard-McLean

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.

Thirsk, June 12th 2025
2025-06-12 19:00 - 22:00 | The Courthouse, Thirsk, The Old Courthouse, Westgate, Thirsk, North Yorkshire, YO7 1QS, United Kingdom
Hilarity Bites Comedy Club feat. Chris Washington, Jules O’Brian, and host Chris Lumb
Show details:

Chris Washington
Edinburgh Comedy Award Best Newcomer Nominee - 2017
As seen on Mock The Week (BBC2), Live From The BBC (BBC1), House of Games (BBC2) and as heard on Have A Word Podcast, and The Stand up Sketch Show. As seen as tour support for Kevin Bridges, along with Milton Jones and Jason Manford.
Chris began performing stand up comedy in July 2012, and after five years, several hundred gigs for a host of reputable promoters up and down the country, and a well received Edinburgh debut show, he is fast becoming one of the most sought after new acts on the circuit.
In his early days Chris made the finals of several new act competitions, and was spotted by Jason Manford, who selected him to support him on several tour dates. With a cheeky Northern charm and hilarious tales it’s clear to see why Chris is flying up the comedy ladder.
“A master of storytelling” - ★★★★ - The Times
“a mainstream comedy star in the making” - ★★★★ - Chortle
“if you like your comedy funny, Washington’s your man” - ★★★★ - Joe.co.uk

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

Chris Lumb
As seen on Russell Howard's Good News, Chris Lumb is no stranger to comedy. As the manager and performer of improv group "The Discount Comedy Checkout" he's played gigs with them for 12 years! In this time he’s developed an MC style which has fun with audiences and makes the night fully rounded.
With more strings to his comedy bow than a funny Robin Hood, he's a comedy director having award winning films played at festivals such as Raindance. He also started a YouTube channel imaginatively titled Chris Lumb Comedy where he creates sketches and live show videos! As a keen impressionist Chris has also appeared on Russell Howard's Good News performing his favourite Star Wars impressions!
“Chris is such a naturally gifted MC, he reads the room perfect and pounces on any audience interaction with great wit and warmth. The audience never feel scared to get involved which is a credit to his style and unrehearsed approach.” - Shoecake Comedy
“Chris Lumb is a warm and instantly likeable MC, he quickly builds an instant rapport with his audience, very funny , the audience loved him” - Editor's Laughs
“always a lively and quick-witted performer” - Buzz Comedy

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.

Newton Aycliffe, June 19th 2025
2025-06-19 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 Mike Milligan, Ant Dewson, host Elaine Robertson & support
Show details:

Mike Milligan
Having earned his keep as a teacher in Newcastle, Mike Milligan knows a thing or two about ‘audience interaction’, and he majors on it. However this Geordie quickly found classrooms weren’t the best place to share his sharp, witty banter!
Now firmly established as a top stand-up comedian, Mike’s teaching days are on summer vacation indefinitely. In place is a wealth of gigs on the national and international comedy circuit; including both compering and headlining shows for The Comedy Club, the Comedy Store and Jongleurs' clubs and countless more.
Born and Bred in Newcastle, Mike got to fulfil every Geordie boy's dream when he got to play the part of north-east cult hero Sid The Sexist, providing the voice in Viz comic's highly successful video and then performing the iconic sketch live in concert at his spiritual home of Newcastle City Hall.
“Snappy, sharp and packed full of belly laughs... stole the show” - Edinburgh Evening News
“A name to watch out for” - Daily Telegraph
“He has one of the quickest comedy brains on the circuit, so any potential hecklers should be warned - be good or be bettered” - Evening Gazette

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

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.

Malton, June 27th 2025
2025-06-27 19:30 - 22:00 | Milton Rooms, Malton, 2-4 Market Place, Malton, YO17 7LX, United Kingdom
Hilarity Bites Comedy Club feat. Aaron Simmonds, Alex Mitchell, and host Chris Lumb
Show details:

Aaron Simmonds
Aaron Simmonds has been failing to stand up for 32 years; luckily he is far better at comedy than standing up. Aaron has appeared on A-Z Horror Stories (Sky Studios), Russell Howard Hour (Sky), Undeniable (Comedy Central), Guessable (Comedy Central), and has been heard on BBC Radio 4, BBC Radio 1 and BBC Radio Scotland. Aaron offers sharply-observed comedy which is grounded in his disability, but is by no means limited by it.
Aaron performed his critically-acclaimed debut shows, Disabled Coconut and Hot Wheels, at the Edinburgh Fringe in 2019 and 2022. He was an Amused Moose Comedy Award Best Show finalist and was nominated for Best Comedy Show in the Broadway World UK Edinburgh Fringe Awards in 2019.
In 2023, Aaron then decided to embark on his biggest challenge yet, perform stand-up whilst standing up! Baby Steps at that year’s Edinburgh Fringe received rave reviews and sold-out shows, and was long-listed for the ISH Edinburgh Best Comedy Show.
“Amiable, likeable, and a commanding presence on stage, Aaron Simmonds is an exciting talent” - ★★★★ - Broadway Baby
“Weaves an overarching story into multiple anecdotes, calling back to them masterfully throughout the hour” - ★★★★ - The Wee Review
“Simmonds deals with his disability via disarmingly graphic humour, born of a self-confidence and positive spirit that enables him to poke fun at himself” - ★★★★ - Jewish Renaissance

Alex Mitchell
2024 Britain's Got Talent finalist
Britain’s Got Talent 2024 finalist Alex Mitchell is an autistic comic with functional neurological disorder (FND). Using self-deprecating humour - laughing at himself, his neurodivergence, disability, and sexuality - to reflect on some of the most difficult subjects within his own life and wider society.
His debut show, Tics Towards Puffection, tackles his desperate obsession for perfection and being "the best version" of himself. He explores how and if he'll ever achieve this, and how this has and continues to impact his life. Reflecting on society's perception of queer, disabled, and neurodiverse communities, as well as his own perception of himself, Mitchell creates a heartwarming, emotional but always hilarious show.
Alex was also won 'You Can Laugh You Know: Disabled Comedian of the Year 2023' and 'Beat The Frog Winner February 2024'.
“funny and fearless” - Simon Cowell
“Definitely one to watch, very funny and unique” - Jack Gleadow
“Tremendous” - Notts Comedy Review

Chris Lumb
As seen on Russell Howard's Good News, Chris Lumb is no stranger to comedy. As the manager and performer of improv group "The Discount Comedy Checkout" he's played gigs with them for 12 years! In this time he’s developed an MC style which has fun with audiences and makes the night fully rounded.
With more strings to his comedy bow than a funny Robin Hood, he's a comedy director having award winning films played at festivals such as Raindance. He also started a YouTube channel imaginatively titled Chris Lumb Comedy where he creates sketches and live show videos! As a keen impressionist Chris has also appeared on Russell Howard's Good News performing his favourite Star Wars impressions!
“Chris is such a naturally gifted MC, he reads the room perfect and pounces on any audience interaction with great wit and warmth. The audience never feel scared to get involved which is a credit to his style and unrehearsed approach.” - Shoecake Comedy
“Chris Lumb is a warm and instantly likeable MC, he quickly builds an instant rapport with his audience, very funny , the audience loved him” - Editor's Laughs
“always a lively and quick-witted performer” - Buzz Comedy

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, June 27th 2025
2025-06-27 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. Tom Wrigglesworth, Ingrid Dahle, and host Lee Kyle
Show details:

Tom Wrigglesworth
Tom Wrigglesworth is an established stand-up comedian, radio and TV presenter, and voice-over artist from Sheffield, England.
With a disarmingly charming delivery and unforgettable appearance, this Yorkshire funny man became a national have-a-go-hero when he rescued a little old lady from the jaws of a Virgin train ticket inspector; only to be arrested for begging. His subsequent story of the event secured Tom several awards including the Chortle Best Show Award, and a nomination for the main Edinburgh Comedy Award. This led to a sell out tour of the UK, and runs at the New Zealand Comedy Festival and prestigious Montreal Comedy Festival.
Following this, Tom recorded two series of 'Tom Wrigglesworth's Open Letters' for BBC Radio 4, tackling consumer issues in his own hilarious way and winning a highly acclaimed Sony Award for best Radio Comedy along the way. His next radio project, 'Tom Wrigglesworth's Hang Ups' for BBC Radio 4 is currently in its second series and focuses on telephone conversations with his parents.
Tom is also known for his uncanny resemblance to Green Bay Packers quarter back Aaron Rodgers, and worked with NFL films to create ‘The Incredible Mr Wrigglesworth’. This short film which featured Tom performing in Green Bay, receiving the key to the city, and coming his face to face with his doppleganger became a viral You Tube hit.
“Magical storytelling... a rare talent... hysterical and accomplished” - Time Out
“The gods of comedy chose greatness for Tom” - The Scotsman
“Undeniable gift for comic storytelling... he has a lovely turn of phrase, an ear for allowable exaggeration... and a born entertainer's grasp of structure” - The Telegraph

Ingrid Dahle
Ingrid Dahle, a Norwegian comedian, is making waves on the British comedy circuit. Ingrid has captivated audiences with her unique style and infectious energy. Her solo shows have been well-received, showcasing her sharp wit and distinct comedic voice.
In addition to her solo work, Ingrid has supported acclaimed comedians like Jen Brister on her last two tours and Desiree Burch. Ingrid previously won the Brighton Comedy Award and been a finalist in several prestigious competitions, such as "So You Think You're Funny?" and the Leicester Mercury Comedian of the Year, where she was the runner-up.
“alternative hero of the future” - Chortle
“fast-rising comedian” - Sunday Times
“endearingly zany” - Three Weeks
“warm host, with bags of energy, and a permanent smile” - The List

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 can be bought online at www.bishopaucklandtownhall.org.uk, in person from Bishop Auckland Town Hall, or telephone 03000 269 524.
