LEICESTER Comedy Festival gets underway today, celebrating its 29th anniversary with hundreds of shows and hilarious acts.
The line up for this year’s festival, features over 560 shows, over 800 performances and 64 venues, with a variety of high profile comedy stars taking to stages across the city.
Highlights include hilarious performances by; Angela Barnes, Ahir Shah, Catherine Bohart, Ed Gamble, Henning Wehn, Katherine Ryan and Maisie Adam, as well as Mark Watson, Nabil Abdulrashid and Rosie Jones.
Last year, the Leicester Comedy Festival was forced to be put on hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The last 18 months or so have been really difficult but thanks to the support from so many people, we are so proud that we are still here, working hard to raise a smile on as many faces as possible,” said a spokesman for the festival, which runs until February 22.
“Given what life has been like over the last 18 months or so, comedians really need to try out new stuff, and get back on their feet. We’re thrilled our festivals engage with so many comedians, venues and promoters to entertain audiences from across the UK,” added Geoff Rowe, the festival’s founding director.
“We really appreciate all your on-going support.”
Despite its relatively humble beginnings, Leicester Comedy Festival event is now described as ‘Europe’s biggest and longest running comedy festival.’
It started in 1994 with 40 events programmed into 23 venues over 7 days throughout Leicestershire.
In 1994 it attracted an audience of 5,000 and enjoyed a modest amount of media attention and a high profile within the community.
However in the years since, the event has grown in enormous popularity.
“Tickets are now on sale from this website so jump in and grab your tickets now,” said a spokesman. Some shows have already sold out so plan your schedule in advance to avoid disappointment,” said a spokesman.
To find out more about Leicester Comedy Festival, visit: www.comedy-festival.co.uk
