• Swindon & Wiltshire Culture
• Thursday November 7 2024
• Author Name: Peter Davison

This’ll make you laugh – Bristol to get new comedy festival

Bristol is to get a new comedy festival, with the backing of business partnership Bristol City Centre BID.

The Business Improvement District says it wants the two-week Bristol Comedy Festival to “cement Bristol as a thriving hub for comedy, offering a platform to emerging and established talent alike.”

The two-week festival will run from January 12 to 25, bringing some cheer during the gloomiest month of the year.

The festival will include the first city-wide Comedy Competition, as well as an edgy Roast Battle and improv nights. There will also be a Best of the West showcase.

The event will also support TAP for Bristol, the BID-backed initiative that combines contactless technology with charitable giving to tackle homelessness and support vital services.

The festival is co-founded by award-winning comedian Harry Allmark and up-and-coming stand-up Burt Williamson.

“When I first moved to Bristol, I never imagined we’d be creating something on this scale,” said Harry.

“This festival is about showing off the talent this city has to offer and creating new opportunities for both performers and audiences.

“After years of grassroots work, it’s a dream to have the backing to grow Bristol into a go-to comedy destination.

“Partnering with TAP for Bristol was also a natural fit as the festival is about celebrating the city’s creativity and spirit – and this partnership allows us to make a meaningful contribution to the community we love.”

“Bristol’s comedy scene has transformed massively in the past few years,” added Burt.

“This festival, and particularly the competition, is about creating a collaborative environment where new and seasoned acts can thrive together.

“We’re thrilled to be working with promoters across the city and to see what this festival can become.”

Vicky Lee, director of Bristol City Centre BID, said: “The Bristol Comedy Festival is testament to the creativity and innovation that defines our city.

“We’re proud to support an initiative that not only showcases local talent but also brings vibrancy to Bristol’s venues and communities.

“We can’t wait to see the city come alive with laughter this January.”

The comedy will precede the BID-backed Bristol Light Festival, which returns to the city on January 31.