
Thirsk, June 12th 2025
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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.