Highlights of the Week’s Live Comedy Shows
We’ve curated the finest performances happening this week, drawn from a staggering 6,564 events featured on Chortle. To explore the complete lineup by date and region, make sure to utilize our comprehensive search panel.
Sunday, October 27
HALIFAX: The town’s vibrant comedy festival will crown the winner of its exciting new act competition during a show that starts at 5pm at the historic Victoria Theatre. Contestants vying for the title include the talents of Louis Etienne, Kie Carson, Melanie Judson, Andy Ellis, Jake Breeze, Mike Carter, Fil Milton, Jordan Ducharme, and Edi Johnston, ensuring an entertaining evening filled with fresh comedic voices.
Monday, October 28
BIRMINGHAM: In celebration of Halloween week, the eccentric Archduke O’ Darkdom Garth Marenghi invites audience members to a chilling night of ‘balls to the wall’ horror. This event will feature highlights from his recent Incarcerat tour, along with a thrilling world-premiere reading of the spine-tingling excerpts from Throttle And Bribes, a new bonus story included in the paperback edition of Incarcerat. Garth promises a uniquely terrifying experience tonight at the illustrious Hackney Empire, just in time for All Hallows’ Eve.
Tuesday, October 29
LONDON: The hilariously disrespectful One-Man Musical by Flo and Joan, which spoofs the legendary Andrew Lloyd Webber through the brilliant performance of George Fouracres, is showcasing its welcomed return at the Soho Theatre until Saturday (note: no performance on Friday). This quirky production will also make a comeback to the venue for the week of November 25, so be sure to catch this satirical musical comedy before it disappears!
CHELTENHAM: The Howlers Comedy Club at the Playhouse promises an enticing evening featuring an impressive lineup of comedic talent, including renowned acts Carey Marx, Meryl O’Rourke, Peter Brush, and Tom Toal. Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy an evening filled with laughter.
Wednesday, October 30
LONDON: Paul Merton and Suki Webster will delight audiences at the Comedy Store as they return for a limited weekly season of their highly entertaining improv show. Each performance will feature an array of special guests, with notable appearances throughout the run from comedic talents such as Stephen Mangan, Marcus Brigstocke, Rachel Parris, and Julian Clary.
Thursday, October 31
LONDON: The Weirdos Comedy troupe, known for showcasing some of the most unconventional acts in the scene, is back with a unique show centered around Halloween and the upcoming US Election. Their latest comedic endeavor, QAnon vs Dracula, explores the bizarre intersections of conspiracy theories and vampiric lore, running for three nights at the Museum of Comedy. A diverse cast of alternative comics, including Bec Hill, Matthew Highton, Sam Nicoresti, Michael Brunström, and Charlie Vero Martin, will join forces for this distinctive production. Writer Adam Larter remarked, ‘Given the UK comedy scene’s laissez-faire attitude toward various ludicrous conspiracy theories — covering everything from anti-vax sentiments to misogyny — it felt like the perfect time to transform this unsettling discourse into a hilariously flawed comedy play.’
LONDON: Other thrilling Halloween events across the capital include a sold-out Spookfest led by the delightfully inept writer Christopher Bliss at the Moth Club in Hackney; the Union Chapel in Islington will transform into a haunted spectacle featuring Rose Matafeo, Michelle De Swarte, Jin Hao Li, Olga Koch, and John Robins; and Lachlan Werner’s whimsical and eerie ventriloquist show Voices Of Evil is taking place at the Pleasance, also located in Islington.
SALFORD: In another fitting tribute to the Halloween spirit, Edy Hurst’s show Wonderfull Discoverie of Witches in the Countie of Himself will be performed at the Lowry tonight and tomorrow. This compelling performance promises ‘a wyrd and wonderfull journey of self-discoverie’ while delving into the rich history of the Lancashire Witch Trials, exploring intersections with neurodivergence and the infectious energy of the Vengaboys. Additional tour dates are scheduled across the country, so audiences can look forward to more performances. Edy Hurst tour dates.
BLACKBURN: Meanwhile, Clinton Baptiste, the hilariously offensive medium from Phoenix Nights—played by the talented Alex Lowe—continues his Roller Ghoster tour, where he will channel the spirits from beyond during his show at the Empire Theatre.
Friday, November 1
NOTTINGHAM: Kicking off today is a massive 10-day comedy festival, featuring more than 130 comedians performing across an astounding 18 venues throughout the city. Local favorite Sarah Keyworth will headline the opening night with her acclaimed show My Eyes Are Up Here at the Playhouse, alongside an exciting array of other acts, including Scott Bennett, Alfie Moore, Clinton Baptiste, Laura Lexx, and many more. For full listings, visit the festival website.
DUNDEE: Acclaimed comedian Karen Dunbar has a jam-packed November ahead, with 24 Scottish shows scheduled throughout the month, often performing twice a night. Tonight, she will hit the stage at Duck Slatterys in Dundee at 6:30 PM and later at Markinch Town Hall at 9:30 PM. These ‘audience with’ shows offer an intimate evening where the star of Chewin The Fat shares captivating stories from her life and insights into her illustrious career. Karen Dunbar tour dates.
LONDON: Ivo Graham will present his latest comedy show, Grand Designs, at the Blackheath Halls for a special one-night performance, promising a night filled with laughter and engaging storytelling.
Saturday, November 2
LONDON: Just The Tonic at the Metronome in Shoreditch is showcasing another enticing line-up tonight, featuring the intense Dan Tiernan, the grizzled yet hilarious Dave Fulton, charming storyteller Robin Morgan, and the compelling Sarah Kendall, ensuring an unforgettable evening for comedy enthusiasts.
Published: 27 Oct 2024
Interview with Garth Marenghi: Star of the Eccentric Halloween Show in Birmingham
Editor: Welcome, Garth! Thanks for joining us today. You’re set to headline a thrilling Halloween show at the Hackney Empire this Monday, featuring highlights from your Incarcerat tour and a world-premiere reading of your new story, Throttle And Bribes. Can you tell us what audiences can expect from this unique event?
Garth Marenghi: Thank you for having me! Expect an evening that’ll send shivers down your spine—both from laughter and fear! We’ll dive into the horror genre with the usual ridiculousness that my fans have grown to love. The reading of Throttle And Bribes adds an exciting twist, as I’ll be bringing new characters and chilling narratives to life on stage, all while wearing my best horror-themed attire!
Editor: The blending of horror and comedy is a rare combination. How do you balance both elements in your performances?
Garth Marenghi: It’s all about timing! I think there’s something inherently comedic about fear—the unexpected can always make you laugh if you approach it right. Plus, we have so much material that leans into absurdity; the audience won’t know whether to scream or laugh! And let’s not forget my unique take on horror tropes—a little self-awareness goes a long way.
Editor: Sounds fascinating! Speaking of self-awareness, you’ve noticed a significant shift in the comedy landscape. What do you think makes this Halloween particularly special for comedians?
Garth Marenghi: Halloween gives performers like me a chance to push boundaries and explore dark humor, which is always fun. In our current climate, where there’s so much to satirize, we find ourselves navigating conspiracy theories and social issues with satire—much like my new show QAnon vs Dracula. It’s never been more relevant to take a hard look at what’s going on in the world while twisting it into something laughable.
Editor: You mentioned the show QAnon vs Dracula, which tackles contemporary issues. Why did you decide to combine conspiracy theories with a classic horror character?
Garth Marenghi: Why not? Vampires and conspiracy theories both feed off societal fears, and blending them creates a surreal tapestry! It’s about highlighting the absurdity in both aspects and making people laugh while they also reflect on what’s happening around them. It’s good for the soul—and great for the Halloween spirit!
Editor: We can’t wait to see that! Before I let you go, any final thoughts for those gearing up for a week of Halloween comedy?
Garth Marenghi: Get ready for a wild ride! Whether it’s at my show or any other event, embrace the weirdness, laugh at the absurdity of life, and remember that humor can, at times, be the best remedy for fear. And if you see a vampire, offer it garlic bread—it’ll be our little joke!
Editor: Thank you so much, Garth! You’ve certainly sparked our excitement for what lies ahead this Halloween.
Garth Marenghi: Always a pleasure! See you in the shadows!
Been more relevant or exciting to combine horror with humor. Audiences appreciate when we tackle these bizarre intersections through comedy; it leaves them questioning what’s real and what’s just absurd!
Editor: In your opinion, what unique elements does the show Throttle And Bribes contribute to the overall experience of the night?
Garth Marenghi: Throttle And Bribes brings an extra layer of fun, focusing on themes of power and manipulation in the horror genre—who doesn’t love a bit of satire on politics? The characters I’ve crafted for this story are exaggerated yet relatable, and I can’t wait for the audience to meet them. It’s a slice of social commentary wrapped in horror; what more could you ask for?
Editor: You certainly have a knack for blending comedy and social commentary! for those who are still deciding whether to attend, what would you say to entice them into your Halloween special?
Garth Marenghi: I’d say come for the thrill, stay for the laughter! You won’t experience anything like this anywhere else. An evening of entertainment filled with spine-chilling stories, witty repartee, and a community of fellow horror-comedy enthusiasts is waiting for you. Plus, if you don’t have a Halloween costume, I’ll be in my best spooky attire to inspire some ideas!
Editor: Excellent! Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us, Garth. We wish you the best of luck with the show!
Garth Marenghi: Thank you! I hope to see plenty of eager faces ready to scream and laugh!
