Chorley Little Theatre

Somewhere in a parallel universe little Alfie’s natural comedic performance skills were recognised by his doting parents who encouraged and developed his blossoming talent. After several years as a stage school brat Alfie’s angelic face was launched on stage and screen and the rest is history.

Meanwhile, in this universe Alfie Moore was told to stop messing about in class before being ‘encouraged’ into the grinding, grimy world of an apprenticeship in the Sheffield steelworks. When recession hit he traded steel for copper by joining Humberside Police.

In his 40s the two universes collided when Alfie made a bid for showbiz success – but unfortunately 30 years of shift-work and being punched in the face quite a lot, had left him with ‘a face for radio’. A face not so much ‘lived in’ as inhabited by a settlement of squatters with little regard to property maintenance and repair.

This is the true story of ‘Fair Cop’ Alfie’s big plan to transition from the BBC radio waves to TV star. Could it be done? Or had Father Time decided that his time had passed?

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An Audience With Mick Miller

Mick Miller is a comedy legend who has been at the top of his game for over 40 years. His workload is as busy now as it has ever been, he never stops! His deadpan delivery and his unique hairstyle are what people remember, but he constantly works on his act and is for ever adding new gags and stories to keep it fresh, but he can’t leave a venue without performing his set piece, Noddy. The audience just wouldn’t let him.

In this show, Mick performs a full comedy set in the 1st half and is interviewed by comedian and close friend, Ryan Gleeson. The interview is very funny and informative, and it’s never the same twice. Ryan is always trying to find out new things and Mick keeps trying to make Ryan laugh.

This show is a must for comedy fans.

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BOB HARRIS & COLIN HALL Present 'The Songs The Beatles Gave Away'

“Bob Harris is a straight-up legend” ~ Chris Martin / Coldplay

BBC’s Bob Harris and author/music journalist Colin Hall set out upon an intimate speaking tour based around their mutual love and appreciation of The Beatles, including rare archive audio from Bob's conversations with Lennon & McCartney. By 1963 the pair had written so many songs they simply couldn’t all be accommodated on just their own Beatles releases, so it made artistic and economic good sense to be offered to other artists for recording and the Merseybeat boom of 1963 & 1964 gave them a tailor made outlet in artists such as Cilla Black, Billy J. Kramer and Tommy Quickly. This is the story behind those songs, the hits, the misses and the demos that the group never released: ‘The Songs The Beatles Gave Away’

‘Whispering’ Bob Harris, OBE has been at the very heart of UK music scene for the best part of fifty years. He has established a worldwide reputation as one of the most trusted and influential broadcasters of his generation – described by Radio Times as “…one of the greats of British contemporary music broadcasting” and by The Mail On Sunday as “a national treasure”.

For the past 20 years Colin Hall has been the custodian at John Lennon’s childhood home ‘Mendips’ (guiding the likes of Bob Dylan, Yoko Ono and James Taylor around the property), he's written two books on The Fab Four and presented a BBC Radio 4 documentary with Alexei Sayle titled ‘The Lennon Visitors’. Colin was incredibly in the audience at the Village Fete where John was first introduced to Paul..! The two friends have worked on several projects together before including the upcoming film Pre:Fab (which focuses on the band’s early days as The Quarrymen), a WBBC production of ‘The Songs The Beatles Gave Away’ and 2007’s Sony Award winning ‘The Day John Met Paul.’

“Colin (Hall) is perhaps the world’s greatest Beatle authority” – Bob Harris

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Carl Hutchinson: Today Years Old

What has quickly become an annual tradition. Carl is back for a third consecutive back-to-back tour. His storytelling skills & ability to hold an audience is second to none. Rich in observations and exaggerated physical comedy, a night out with this Geordie is guaranteed to have you belly laughing from start to finish.

★★★★★ - “The most relatable comic ever, great vibes”

★★★★★ - “There are some topics that shouldn’t be funny, but the way they’re told and put together is just brilliant”

★★★★★ - “Jus so, so funny”

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Solo again, Britain’s most celebrated clairvoyant medium psychic from Peter Kay’s ‘Phoenix Nights’ returns with his brand new hilarious one-man stand up show.   As well as venturing into the audience to offer his unique spirit readings, Clinton Baptiste comes armed with more tales from his extraordinary childhood; exposing himself in ways you could never imagine -the family that shaped him, the narrow minded who doubted him and the lovers that left him.  He regales us with stories of his recent work on a cruise ship, his spirit readings round the UK and not to mention the day to day life with his Greenlandic spirit guide, Taruak.

Brace yourselves -  Clinton will prove his mystical ability once and for all. This time, he guarantees you WILL believe!

No actual money back if you don’t.  It’s not really a legal ‘guarantee’ as such.  Look, it’s just an expression, okay?

Laugh, gasp, scream your head off… but whatever you do… strap in and hold tight as Clinton takes you on a rip-roaring ride through the twists and turns of his heady life. 

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Constellations

Written by Nick Payne Directed by Alan Levesley

Winner! 2012 Evening Standard Award for Best New Play Nominee: 2013 Olivier Award for Best New Play

Imagine we live in a multiverse, a set of parallel existences containing infinite possibilities. Every possible event could happen, and every romance, every heartbreak, every happy ending is in one universe or another. If two people meet, they could fall in love or go their separate ways, marry other people, or spend their lifetimes together.

Marianne and Roland meet at a party. They hit it off, or they don’t. He breaks her heart, or she breaks his. Their love blossoms, or withers.

This spellbing play about a possible romance between a beekeeper and a physicist explores how even the smallest change makes a difference and decides the course our lives take.

A play about free will and friendship; it's about quantum multiverse theory, love and honey.

One relationship. Infinite possibilities.

Performed in our Studio with unreserved seating

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Dave Spikey: Life In a Northern Town

This show is all about Dave’s life in ….. well…. a northern town so no surprise there. From his humble working class childhood in the small terraced houses round the mills in Bolton through passing his 11 plus and going to grammar school with an ambition to be a doctor which was thwarted just after his “O” levels. Then at 16 getting a job in the Pathology department at Bolton General Hospital and working there for 32 years ultimately as Chief Biomedical Scientist in Haematology before throwing caution to the wind and leaving to pursue a career in comedy, as you do!

He will tell how he turned his microscope off for the last time on October 13th 2000 and two weeks later found himself on a car park only half a mile down the road singing “Walking on Sunshine” in the pouring rain on a makeshift stage dressed as a giant berry while a ten foot c*ck and balls slowly but surely inflated behind him! He wondered at that moment if he’d made the right decision. As it turns out, he had.

Wednesday night in aid of Derian House

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Fresh from this year’s Edinburgh Fringe and with a slew of five-star reviews, one of the UK’s favourite TV household names returns to the stage with his brand new and most personal show to date.

From the quote attributed to Mark Twain, humour is defined as Tragedy Plus Time. Come and join one of our leading laugh specialists as he tests that formula by mining the most tragic event in his life for laughs.

With his TV career now in its third decade, Ed has regularly appeared on the likes of QI, Mock The Week, Alan Davies As Yet Untitled, and Live At The Apollo.

With legions of fans both in the UK and abroad, Ed remains the observational stand-up to see.

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• 2003
• US
• 1h 36min
• PG

• Directed by: Jon Favreau
• Written by: David Berenbaum
• Cast: Will Ferrell, Bob Newhart, Ed Asner, James Caan, Zooey Deschanel, Mary Steenburgen

Buddy (Ferrell) is a big Elf who, though accepted in his Elvish community at the North Pole, manages to wreak havoc on a daily basis. Fed up and confused by his charge, Papa Elf (Bob Newhart) sends him to the US in search of his true identity. Hilarious and puerile Yuletide comedy.

• 71%
• 66%
• 84%

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Show And Tell present FIN TAYLOR: ASK YOUR MOTHER

Fresh from the viral success of his hit web series Fin vs The Internet, that comedian your mother doesn’t like you seeing shares a new hour of brutally funny stand-up for 2024. When he’s not in a roll neck making influencers squirm, he’s appeared on BBC's Live at the Apollo, Have I got News for You and The Mash Report, and _Comedy Central’s Roast Battle. _

“Gleefully provocative and packed with big, hard laughs” ★★★★ The Guardian

“A gutsy, ingenious truth-teller with the jokes to back up the attitude” ★★★★ The Times

“An invigoratingly-good comic. A live thrill to watch” ★★★★ The I Newspaper

★★★★ _The Independent _ ★★★★★ The Scotsman ★★★★★ Chortle

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Flint Street Nativity

A Cados Production

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Controversial comedian known for his conservative politics, as seen on Question Time and Mock the Week.

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Folk music suffused with comedy.

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Jessica Fostekew: Mettle

A brand new stand-up show about passion, pace and purpose from the critically-acclaimed star of BBC’s QI, Live at the Apollo and C4’s Travel Man.

Jess’ son’s joined a cult AND her cat’s learnt to talk – but despite all that she’s fine, actually. In fact she’s hurtling faster and hustling harder than ever for the things that she wants and needs.

Her last show Wench played a sold-out Edinburgh Fringe run and UK tour and is available now as a special. Her previous show Hench was nominated for Best Show at the Edinburgh Comedy Awards and won Best Show at the Chortle Awards where Jess also won Best Act. It’s available to stream now on Amazon Prime.

Jess is a regular co-host of The Guilty Feminist podcast, host and creator of her own podcast about eating, Hoovering, and star and writer of BBC Radio 4’s Sturdy Girl Club. Jess has also appeared in the award-winning sitcom Motherland and most recently hugely-acclaimed feature film Scrapper which won the Grand Jury prize at the Sundance festival.

She’s also been on all your favourite panel shows from Celebrity Pointless to House of Games.

‘A loud, lively and vital voice’ ★★★★ Evening Standard

‘She wears her smarts on her sleeve’ ★★★★ Guardian

‘She finds a new fiercely funny strain of comedy that’s her own’ ★★★★ Times

Presented by Plosive Live in association with Ebdon Management

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Jessica Fostekew / Strip Light Productions

A new show about private things, public things and trying to wrap your big sexy arms around time to keep it still. You’ve seen Jessica on Live at the Apollo and QI, amongst other telly shows. She’s a regular co-host of The Guilty Feminist Podcast, the host and creator of The Hoovering Podcast and you hear her regularly on BBC Radio 4’s News Quiz and Now Show. Nominated for the Dave Edinburgh Comedy Award – Best Show 2019 with her last show Hench and winner of Best Show and Best Breakthrough Act in the Chortle Awards 2020.

Strong language/swearing

Age category: 14+

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Edge Street Live Presents A Thrilling and Dangerous Evening with John Robb

John Robb talks about a life in music, his best selling art of darkness book, being the first person to interview Nirvana, inventing the word britpop and adventures on the post punk frontline…

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The winner of ITV’s Britain’s Got Talent takes to the road with this brand-new show for 2024! Join Jon for his biggest show yet jam-packed with the very best in music, comedy and entertainment, following a hugely successful season at the Edinburgh Festival.

As well Jon’s trademark brand of musical comedy with all new material, the show will also feature an updated version of his hilarious one-man musical which he played to acclaim for a limited run of at fringe 2022.

As seen on Ant & Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway and _The Royal Variety Performance. _

‘A show stopping comedy performance’ The Sun

‘Wonderful!’ Simon Cowell

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Jonny and Paddy and back on the road again! Bringing their brand new show 'Dance Like it Never Happened' on tour.

And they've missed you all!

So what is this new hilarious show about? Grief. Its about Grief.

In 2019, we lost another election, our place in Europe and, worst of all, a dearly beloved friend. We are no strangers to grief, but it hurt.

Then in 2020, we all lost the world as we knew it. Our decades-long system of "dealing with emotions" (ignore them, drink heavily and make jokes) finally broke. We finally broke.

In their most honest and personal show yet, Jonny & The Baptists learn to accept and engage with their grief, telling the story of denial, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance through their trademark blend of silly, joyful songs, deadpan stand-up and riotous storytelling.

Finding meaning, humour and beauty in the hardest part of life.

So come and see us, have a laugh and maybe a cry - but definitely a laugh.

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Kiri Pritchard-Mclean - Peacock

Star of Live at the Apollo, Have I Got News For You and QI Kiri Pritchard-McLean is back with a brand new tour, her funniest and most personal to date.

Prepare for a joyous and uplifting show from a comedian known for making "powerhouse stand-up from the thorniest of subjects" (The Guardian).

"expect sequins, social commentary, and massive laughs from the renaissance woman of UK comedy" - Rolling Stone

A Little Wander production

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Ladies' Day A Cados Production

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Lou Conran: Tangent

Award winning Comedian Lou Conran embarks on her first mini tour around the UK. Comedy is a serious business these days, and you absolutely won’t find that here. With a mind that ricochets more than a drunk at a wedding, this show is full of stories, and silliness, most of it planned, some of it …well, who knows? Described as “Masterful at owning a room” she skilfully weaves her naturally funny ways into a fabulous show.

Her usual waffles can be heard on her podcasts “How’s Your Week Been?” and “Spit or Swallow”. She’s a regular tour support for Sarah Millican and host of BBC R4 Extra’s Comedy Club and a regular guest on Times Radio. With support from the G.C both mentally and physically this show proves certain to be a joyous (not for the faint hearted) occasion.

“As filthy as she is fabulous” Edinburgh Guide “Hilarious” The Scotsman

“Phenomenal” Sarah Millican

Unreserved Seating in our Studio

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Louise Atkinson: Mates

Come and watch Louise’s award-winning, debut show all about friendships in our Studio

You can't complete a night out with your friends unless someone has cried over their ex, you've made a new best friend in the toilets that you'll never see again, and you've done three laps of the bar looking for Lisa. Seriously though, where is she? Our friends are our chosen family. From the happiest times to breaking up with friends, grab a pint (of wine) and Louise will recount some of her funniest memories. Hopefully we find Lisa.

Amused Moose Best Debut Act - Winner NextUps Biggest Award in Comedy - Nominee Comedians Choice Award Best Show - Nominee

‘Immaculately structured anecdotes, incisive observations & Great Jokes’ – The Wee Review 'an instantly likeable comic'. - The Arts Desk: 'her innate funny bones reassure you that you’re in safe hands'. - Chortle 'Reminiscent of Victoria Wood & Peter Kay.' - Stuart Maconie ‘Doesn’t stint on the Jokes’ – The Scotsman

Unreserved Seating in our Studio

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Lucan A Cados Production

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A regular event in which Jason and his team select some of his favourite circuit comedians and sends them to Chorley Theatre for a great night of comedy.

Check www.manfordscomedyclub.com for line-up details. Please note Jason will not be part of the line-up.

Unreserved Seating

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Live comedy show featuring hilarious comedians from the UK touring circuit, all personally chosen by Jason Manford.

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Mark Simmons: Quip Off The Mark

UK Comics’ Comic 2022 - Best Act

“One of the UK’s pre-eminent pun merchants…the quickest quipster in showbusiness.” - Evening Standard

As Seen on Mock The Week, BT Sport and ITV, ‘Master of one-liners’, and social media phenomenon brings his sell-out tour show ‘Quip Off the Mark’ back to Chorley for a second sensational evening. (Please note: this is the same show that Mark performed here to a sold-out audience in October 2022)

Mark joined Dara O’Brian and Hugh Dennis on BBC2’s Mock The Week as a semi-regular on the show and now brings you his show Quip Off The Mark which has toured over 125 venues and sold over 15,000 tickets. He’s also been appearing on BT Sport’s DIY pundit and The Rugby’s On.

Mark has also appeared in other TV shows such as ITV’s Out There, BBC Radio 4ExtraStands Up, a Channel 4 pilot starring alongside Bridget Christie, as well as BBC3’s One For The Road.

Mark is enjoying further success with his solo podcast, Jokes With Mark Simmons, where he invites a fellow comic, such as Gary Delaney, Sarah Milican, and Milton Jones to discuss jokes that they’ve written but simply just haven’t worked.

This isn’t your average one-liner show as there is the running theme throughout. This year Mark’s parents have sold the house he grew up in and has to collect his box of stuff from the loft. Come discover what’s in the box in this top-level one-liner show structured in a way you’ve never seen before.

“Master of one-liners…his (show) consist(s) of literally one liner after one liner, with one or two breaks for the audience to catch their breath before another assault on the laughter and muscles with the next segment.” One4Review ★★★★★

“Absolutely hilarious.” The Scotsman ★★★★

“A lot of excellent funny one-liners.” Bruce Dessau

“A talented comic with an artisan’s grasp of joke writing.” Chortle ★★★★

RUNNER UP DAVE’s Top 10 Jokes of the Fringe 2022 DAVE’s Top 10 Jokes of the Fringe 2019 (& 2017) Nominee Amused Moose: Best Show 2017

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Impatient Productions

Mark Watson's 12-year-old son just got a phone. His 70-year-old dad has been through the most frightening experience of his life. Both a dad and a kid himself, around the midpoint of his life, the Taskmaster star, multiple award-winner and Fringe legend returns to consider the search for meaning that we're all on, with or without Google. There will be a lot of jokes. 'A genius-level comic doing what he does best… magical to watch and just so funny' ★★★★★ (Time Out). 'Witty, warm, perfectly judged' ★★★★★ (Telegraph). 'Uplifting, time excellently spent' ****½ (Chortle).

Strong language/swearing

Age category: 14+

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Matt Forde: Inside No 10

Host of hit political podcast ‘The Political Party’ Matt Forde (Spitting Image, Have I Got News For You, The British Scandal, The Last Leg, The Royal Variety Performance) explores the dark comedy horror that is British politics, ahead of the next election. Plus silly voices.

'Our foremost satirical stand-up… whatever your politics, you'll find excellence here' (Sunday Times)

'Possibly the best political comedy show on the Fringe' (Telegraph)

'Forde is as gratifyingly sane as comedians come… smart, funny ideas' (Times)

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MORGAN & WEST's MASSIVE MAGIC SHOW FOR KIDS Roll up, roll up! Morgan & West are back with a massive magic show for kids (and their childish grown-ups)! Expect gawps, gasps, and guffaws in this relentlessly funny and fantastical magic filled extravaganza, guaranteed to delight those aged five and 105, and indeed everyone in between!

Morgan & West have shown their scientific skills in Unbelievable Science (national tour), brought good will to all with their Great Big Christmas Magic Show (national tour), attempted to escape The Slammer (CBBC), and even fooled Penn & Teller (ITV/CW Network). This season their hitting the road with their brand-new magic show full of their trademark wit, whimsy, and wall-to-wall silliness.

“Hilarious and good for all ages” - Primary Times ★★★★ “hugely talented” - Daily Mirror ★★★★ “superbly crafted – The Stage

One hour, with no interval.

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A Murder is Announced

A Cados Production

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• 2024
• UK

• Directed by: Rupert Goold
• Cast: Joseph Fiennes

A new play by James Graham directed by Rupert Goold.

Joseph Fiennes (The Handmaid’s Tale) plays Gareth Southgate in James Graham’s (Sherwood) gripping examination of nation and game.

The country that gave the world football has since delivered a painful pattern of loss. Why can’t England’s men win at their own game?

With the worst track record for penalties in the world, Gareth Southgate knows he needs to open his mind and face up to the years of hurt, to take team and country back to the promised land.

Filmed live on stage at the National Theatre, Rupert Goold (Judy) directs this spectacular new play.

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• 2024
• UK
• 15

• Directed by: Sam Yates
• Cast: Andrew Scott

Adapted by Simon Stephens, after Anton Chekhov.

Directed by Sam Yates.

Designed by Rosanna Vize.

Andrew Scott (Fleabag) brings multiple characters to life in Simon Stephens’ (The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time) radical new version of Chekhov’s Uncle Vanya.

Hopes, dreams, and regrets are thrust into sharp focus in this one-man adaptation which explores the complexities of human emotions.

Filmed live during its sold-out run in London’s West End, Vanya will be playing exclusively in cinemas in 2024.

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Plosive Live

As the survivors of a global pandemic crawl from their fortified boltholes and begin to rebuild society, what is left of them and who amongst them dares to lead them to the light? Join critically acclaimed and multi award-winning comedian Nick Helm as he embarks on a show so insightful, so honest, so legitimate that it will fix all of society's problems and lead the way to a new plane of existence. This is the future. The future is now. 'A true mastermind' ★★★★★ (EdFestMag.com). 'Terrific' ★★★★ (Times). 'Triumphant' ★★★★ (List).

Audience participation, Contains distressing themes, Strobe lighting, Strong language/swearing

Age category: 16+

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NICK HELM'S SUPER FUN GOOD TIME SHOW

Nick Helm – the man with the golden larynx and greatest living all-round entertainer – is BACK!

After years and years of therapy, pills, personal growth and being a living legend the nation’s favourite Uncle and International Treasure-in-Waiting returns to the road to mesmerise a new generation of thrill seekers in his all new, brand new, box fresh show. Come and see your Golden Emperor shake his ass and give you the only thing you’ve ever wanted… the best damn night of your fragile lives.

Since starting stand-up comedy in 2007, Nick quickly gained attention from across the industry for his unique, powerful and above all hilarious blend of one-liners, stories, poems and songs. His previous shows enjoyed sell-out runs at Edinburgh Fringe, and he has been twice nominated for the Edinburgh Comedy Awards.

He has also released two successful albums, played lead roles in hit TV sitcoms Uncle and Loaded, fronted two of his own TV shows Eat Your Heart Out (Dave) and Nick Helm’s Heavy Entertainment (BBC), and was nominated for a BAFTA for short film Elephant, which he co-wrote, directed and starred in. As also seen on Live at the Apollo (BBC), 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown (Channel 4), The Reluctant Landlord (Sky) and many more.

‘Genuinely exciting’ ★★★★★ _Telegraph _

‘Terrific’ ★★★★ Times

‘A true comedy daredevil’ ★★★★ Time Out

Presented by Plosive Live in association with Sophie Chapman Talent

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THE NOISE NEXT DOOR: FREEWHEELING

Buckle up… You’re in for a hell of a ride! The quickest wits in comedy are here to take you on a totally improvised tour around YOUR weirdest and wildest ideas.

The Noise Next Door are going hell for leather in this brand new show as they race through a priceless parade of off-the-cuff gags, scenes and songs, all based on your suggestions.

The Noise Next Door are twelve-time sell-out veterans of The Edinburgh Fringe and have appeared on ‘The One Show’ (BBC One), ‘Britain’s Got Talent’ (ITV1), and ‘Roast Battle’ (Comedy Central). They have also appeared alongside the likes of Michael McIntyre, Katherine Ryan, Romesh Ranganathan and Harry Hill.

“Hilarious… A superior kind of chaos” Telegraph

“21st century comedy at its finest and funniest.” The Stage

“Comedy gold… Staggeringly well executed.” Guardian

“Phenomenal” Daily Mirror

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THE NOISE NEXT DOOR: ADVENTURE ACADEMY!

‘The Adventure Academy… For Adventurers!’ with The Noise Next Door

Enroll at the world’s most reckless and ridiculous school with comedy legends The Noise Next Door. Where will your adventure take you? Dangerous deserts? Treacherous tundras? Volatile volcanoes? It’s all up to you in this side-splitting, globe-trotting hour of entertainment that is fun for all ages.

The Noise Next Door are twelve-time sell-out veterans of The Edinburgh Fringe and have appeared on ‘The One Show’ (BBC One) and ‘Britain’s Got Talent’ (ITV1). They have also appeared alongside the likes of Michael McIntyre, Katherine Ryan, Romesh Ranganathan and Harry Hill.

“World-class comedy” ★★★★★ USA Weekly

“Comedy masterpiece” ★★★★★ ThreeWeeks

“Fabulous” ★★★★★ Latest

“Immense” ★★★★★ Broadway Baby

(Ages 5 - 105!)

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Phil Ellis’s Excellent Comedy Show

Do you like comedy? Do you like shows? What are your thoughts on excellence? If you like all three, then Edinburgh Award-nominated Phil Ellis's Excellent Comedy Show is the excellent comedy show for you.

One of the top 20 best-reviewed shows of The Fringe, this is an hour and a bit of hilarious stand-up and fun from the North West’s most punctual working-class comedian.

Nominee: Best Comedy Show – Edinburgh Comedy Awards Winner: The Malcom Hardee Award for Comic Originality

‘The density of gags is impressive… There’s not many better exponents of this message-free, ego-free, knockabout comedy than Ellis in his prime. And this is that show.’ ★★★★1/2 Chortle

‘Ellis’s performance is touched by comic genius. Every moment he is on stage something funny, and then funnier, is happening.’ ★★★★★ Scotsman

‘It’s a surreal and unforgettable hour which firmly cements Phil Ellis as one of the funniest and finest comedians in the UK today.’ ★★★★★ Broadway Baby

★★★★★ One4Review ★★★★1/2 Comic’s Comic ★★★★ Entertainment Now ★★★★ Beyond the Joke ★★★★ List

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Popcorn Falls

Written by James Hindman Directed by Sean Duxbury

UK Premiere

Welcome to Popcorn Falls, a small American town whose only claim to fame – their namesake waterfall – has dried up along with their income. Now bankrupt and under threat from the mayor of a neighbouring town who wants to turn Popcorn Falls into a sewage treatment plant, their last chance is a large grant that can only be used if the town produces a play in a week. One big problem: no playhouse. Another problem: no play. Led by the Mayor and the local handyman, the enterprising townsfolk try to rise to the challenge and prove that art can make a difference.

A high energy production where a town’s population is brought to life by just two performers, and the audience is whisked along in the campaign to save the town.

Performed ‘in the round’ in our Studio with unreserved seating

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PQA Chorley production of Roald Dahl's Matilda The Musical JR.

Book by Dennis Kelly Music and Lyrics by Tim MInchin

Orchestrations and Additional Music by Chris Nightingale

Rebellion is nigh in Matilda JR., a gleefully witty ode to the the anarchy of childhood and the power of imagination! This story of a girl who dreams of a better life and the children she inspires will have audiences rooting for the "revolting children" who are out to teach the grown-ups a lesson.

Matilda has astonishing wit, intelligence… and special powers! She's unloved by her cruel parents but impresses her schoolteacher, the highly loveable Miss Honey. Matilda's school life isn't completely smooth sailing, however – the school's mean headmistress, Miss Trunchbull, hates children and just loves thinking up new punishments for those who don't abide by her rules. But Matilda has courage and cleverness in equal amounts, and could be the school pupils' saving grace!

Packed with high-energy dance numbers and catchy songs, Matilda JR. is a joyous girl power romp. Children and adults alike will be thrilled and delighted by the story of the special little girl with an extraordinary imagination.

Running Time Approx 1hr 15minutes including interval

Roald Dahl's Matilda The Musical JR. This amateur production is presented by arrangement with Music Theatre International All authorised performance materials are also supplied by MTI www.MTIShows.co.uk

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Proudly Presented by Phil McIntyre Live by arrangement with The Galton Agency

Following his ground-breaking 2018 show, Deaf Comedy Fam, Ray Bradshaw’s new stand-up show, Deaf Com 1, covers his recent fatherhood, teaching his young son sign language and a disastrous trip to Bahrain!

International award-winning comic, Ray, spent 2021/22 touring the UK as John Bishop’s handpicked support act, having previously toured with Frankie Boyle in 2019.  Ray was the first comedian to ever win a Scottish Culture Award and is a regular host of Scotland’s most popular radio show, Off the Ball.

Ray is a CODA (like in the Oscar winning film) and grew up with deaf parents. All of his shows are performed in both BSL and English, with Deaf Comedy Fam becoming the first ever live comedy experience for more than 800 deaf audience members.

Ray’s clever, charming and very funny comedy has received critical acclaim from critics and fans alike.

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RAY BRADSHAW: DOPPELGINGER

Multi award winning comedian Ray Bradshaw is forever being told “you look just like my mate…” where ever he goes. It’s been happening for years and he’s worried about it. Either someone is cloning generic bald men or, there’s a ginger bearded bald man out there who’s doing a bad job of stalking Ray. In his brand-new show Doppelginger, Ray is going to use the latest in genetic research (the internet) to try and put an end to this once and for all. He’s on a quest to find the person who looks most like him.

Doppelginger is a funny heartwarming comedy show about a silly search for a man with an orange beard who’s follicly challenged. If you have a bald, ginger bearded friend in their 30s (true at time of writing), then bring them along. You never know – they could be The One.

Ray’s last show Deaf Com One was a huge success and sold out theatres across the world. The show was all about growing up with deaf parents and as a result every show of Doppelginger will have a BSL interpreter. Ray has previously supported John Bishop on his UK arena tour after John described him as ‘one of the best comedians in the country’.

“Bradshaw is raucously funny … captivating, funny and sharply executed“ ★★★★★ _ BroadwayBaby.com _

“funny and fascinating… one in six of us will lose our sense of hearing. Deaf Comedy Fam proves it doesn’t mean you have to lose your sense of humour” ★★★★ The Scotsman

“this years most groundbreaking show“ ★★★★ _Short.com _

“I grinned from ear to ear for the entire hour“ ★★★★ _ Voice Magazine _

“Has a clear comedy gift” ★★★★ _Edinburgh Evening News _

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Little Wander presents…

Ria Lina - Riawakening

In the aftermath of a global pandemic, comedian and scientist, Ria Lina has had a Riawakening and sees the world differently. In this, her highly anticipated debut tour, Ria tackles the issues of coming out of a global pandemic, the new normal, divorce, dating in a new digital world, motherhood and what it really means to be a woman today.

Fearless, provocative, and very funny, Ria Lina is the only Filipina comedian in British stand-up and a hugely admired talent in the comedy industry.

Her extensive list of credits includes Live At The Apollo, Have I Got News For You?, Mock the Week, Lovestruck High, Richard Hammond’s Brain Reaction, Richard Osman’s House of Games, The Last Leg and Celebrity Mastermind.

“I guarantee you will laugh a lot” ★★★★ THE SCOTSMAN

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Rob Auton: The Rob Auton Show

Award winning writer, comedian and actor Rob Auton has written nine hit Edinburgh Festival Fringe comedy/theatre/spoken-word shows on specific themes including the colour yellow in ‘The Yellow Show’, sleep in ‘The Sleep Show’ and hair in ‘The Hair Show’. In his most autonbiographical show to date ‘The Rob Auton Show’ Rob turns the pen on himself to explore the memories and feelings that create his life on a daily basis.

‘A genuine original’ (Guardian). ‘Makes laughter out of wonder. We need him’ (Scotsman). ‘Charming, eccentric and uplifting’ (Independent). ‘Brilliant’ (Stewart Lee). ‘One of my absolute favourites’ (Daniel Kitson). ‘Rob Auton is the mother freaking greatest’ James Acaster.

TV credits include – Cold Feet, The End of the F*cking World, Miracle Workers, The Russell Howard Show, Rob Delaney’s Stand Up Central, Starstruck

Winner Best Daily Podcast at the British Podcast Awards 2020 Winner Dave Joke of the Fringe 2013 Winner Three Weeks Editor’s Choice Awards 2017

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Rubbish Shakespeare: Romeo and Juliet

Enemies. Balconies. Kissing… sausage rolls!?

Three idiots perform Shakespeare’s famous tragedy, using only a box of tatty wigs, a worn floral dress, and a burst airbed they found by the bins.

Described as ‘like Horrible Histories but funnier’ (Primary Times), the beloved Rubbish Shakespeare Company returns with an anarchic and joyous family-friendly treat.

Featuring clowning, slapstick and knowingly mischievous storytelling, this ‘side-splittingly funny’ (The List) production is the perfect introduction to Shakespeare - or even theatre itself!

Suitable for ALL ages.

★★★★★ ‘A genius way to bring the Bard to fresh audiences’ West End Best Friend

★★★★★ ‘Anything but rubbish! This is stripped back theatre at its very finest.’ At The Theatre

★★★★★ ‘It’s pure rubbish… and you’ll love every minute’ Wee Review

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED SHOW ‘A high class piece of entertainment, whatever your age’ Fringe Review

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CKP and InterTalent Group / Free Fringe

From ITV2's Safeword and CelebAbility, ITV's Weekend with Aled, Comedy Central's Live at the Comedy Store, Channel 5's Celebrity Big Brother's Bit on the Side and having supported Katherine Ryan on her UK tour, everyone's favourite 'guilty pleasure' (Daily Record) returns with a story that is full of northern warmth, some working-class guilt and a bit of blue. 'Stephen's show was hilarious from the first line, and for the whole performance I don't think a single joke died' ★★★★★ (VoiceMag.uk). ★★★★★ (FringeGuru.com). ★★★★★ (One4Review.co.uk). ★★★★ (Sunday Express). ★★★★ (Herald). ★★★★ (ScotsGay.co.uk).

Age category: 16+

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Tez Ilyas - After Eight

One of the most celebrated stars in British comedy, Tez Ilyas (_Live At the Apollo, Mock The Week, Comedy Central, Comic Relief) and Sunday Times best selling author (Secret Diary of a British Muslim Aged 13 3⁄4_) is back with his hilarious new show.

A lot has changed in the last two years for Tez.

He got married, he bought a house, and he’s become a stepdad… to two rabbits. Trying to make sense of his new life, the changing world around us and wrestling the big questions, like: why is Lotus Biscoff in everything now?

As seen on: Live at The Apollo (BBC Two), The Last Leg (C4), Mock the Week (BBC Two), Comedians Giving Lectures (Dave), Alan Davies: As Yet Untitled (Dave), _Comic Relief’s Big Night In_ (BBC One), Live from the BBC (BBC Two), The Chris Ramsey Show (Comedy Central), Live from the Comedy Store (Comedy Central) and Author of: _Secret Diary of a British Muslim Aged 13 3⁄4_, a Sunday Times Bestseller (2022).

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After an incredible sold-out debut run, the man who asked us “do you ski?” is leaving his home in the Tower of London (for good). Catch him as he departs on a second triumphant tour across our nation armed with even more outrageous takes, unbelievable tales, and biblical chat to leave you bowled over with laughter.

Having amassed a loyal fan base of over a quarter of a million followers the multi-viral, social media sensation is delving even deeper into his ludicrous life as he tries to smarten up the not so honourable aspects of himself. Take a look at the pitfalls of online celebrity, the perils of post-palace living and find out that, in an age where everyone is so obsessed with the veneer of virtual contentment, maybe it takes crashing back down to reality to discover where happiness truly lies.

As seen on Comedy Central and tour support for Milton Jones.

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TOM HOUGHTON: IT'S NOT IDEAL

After an incredible break-out year, the multi-viral, social media sensation, star of Netflix “The Circle” and host of "Very British Problems: Live" and “Bad Manors” podcast, Tom Houghton sets out on his biggest and most hilarious show yet.

Having now taken to the international stage with tours of Europe and America, the man who asked us “Do you ski?” returns to the UK to ponder a new question.

In an age where tradition and progress are wrestling against each other; what are the parts of ourselves that need shedding and what is worth holding on to?

“Clever, passionate and soulful“ ★★★★★ _The New European _

“A twisted view of the world“ ★★★★★ The Sunday Express

“Get your tickets today. Tomorrow may well be too late. A Star is Born“ ★★★★★ _One 4 Review _

“Everyone’s cup of tea… Brilliant, bright and insightful” ★★★★★ UK Cabaret

“This unexpected tour de force warrants a 21-gun salute“ ★★★★ _The Daily Telegraph _

“A crafty idiot “ ★★★★ _The Daily Mail _

“Now that’s class“ ★★★★ Fringe Guru

“Has a clear comedy gift” ★★★★ _Edinburgh Evening News _

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TOM STADE: NATURAL BORN KILLER

The legendary Canadian superstar returns with a killer new show!

A master of his craft; unabashed and mischievous with an inate ability to connect to audiences. This is a a show for iGens, Millennials, Gen X’s, Baby Boomers and beyond.

Join Tom as he toys with the complexities of our ever-changing world; muses on societal conundrums and navigates his way around progressiveness and pronouns - not to mention 27 years of marriage and adult kids who refuse to respect him (and like to remind him just how dumb they think he is).

Serially hilarious, he’s wowed sell-out audiences across the UK for the past two decades and remains one of the most compelling and instinctive stand-ups around.

As seen / heard on Live at The Apollo, Mock The Week, Stand-Up For The Week, One Night Stand, Have A Word Pod and much more….

Ladies, gentlemen, and non-binaries, please welcome to the stage, the one and only Tom Stade.

www.tomstade.com

“Unmissable” Edinburgh Evening News

“Debauched truth teller” Guardian Guide

“A natural flair for storytelling and a villainous sense of humour. Master of hardcore comedy” The List

“Every inch a star…super confidence and charisma. If comedy is the new rock ‘n’ roll, then Tom Stade is Keith Richards” Daily Record

“So cool, he could well be the answer to global warming…gloriously funny, silly and smart” Scotsman

“For energy, think Porsche 911. Wouldn’t be out of place in an arena” Mail on Sunday

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The Totally Improvised Adult Pantomime

Fed up of the same old pantos every year? Then get ready for a brand-new pantomime created entirely from audience suggestions.

Heroes, villains, songs and silliness are guaranteed as the gang improvise a brand new pantomime using only your suggestions and a sprinkling of fairy dust. With plenty of quick-witted gags and games, this loving pastiche of panto characters and tropes will be jam-packed with laughs and unexpected delights - oh yes it will!

You don't want to miss this alternative festive treat that is strictly for adults only!

Unreserved Seating in our Studio

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The Totally Improvised FAMILY Pantomime

Bored of the same pantomimes every year? The ComedySportz team are back this Christmas for more Totally Improvised Pantomimes! Heroes, villains, songs and silliness are guaranteed this December as the gang create brand-new pantomime adventures using audience suggestions… and a sprinkling of fairy dust. Oh yes they do!

This show from the award-winning ComedySportz team is sure to delight audiences of all ages with shows for families, tots and even an adults-only show which promises to be raunchier and ruder, but no less silly fun! Each show is a loving pastiche of familiar pantomime tropes and characters where anything can happen. The performers don’t know their roles beforehand, and audiences might even get involved in the action! There will be live music and songs, games and plenty of festive fun for all.

Unreserved Seating in our Studio. Approximate running time 1hr 10mins (no interval)

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The Toxic Avenger: The Musical A Cados Production

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TREASURE ISLAND - THE PANTOMIME

Written by Robert Walsh Directed by Steven Catterall & Shaun McManus

Avast behind shipmates! Set sail for fun and adventure in this rip-roaring Pantomime version of everybody’s favourite swashbuckling classic.

Very loosely based on Robert Louis Stevenson’s novel this show brings you all the traditional elements of Panto, such as slapstick, bright costumes, and audience participation with a nautical (but nice!) twist.

From poop decks to peg legs, it’s a show packed full of hilarious moments, treasured songs, and dynamic dances for the whole family.

Join our hero Jim Ladd as he sets sail for the buried treasure of an infamous pirate captain, with a ship packed with a comedy duo, hissable villains and unsinkable Dames!

Ho-ho-ho and a bottle of fun - this is sure to be another sell out, so book early!

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Twin Lizzy are Back in Town - Live and Dangerous!

The Chorley-based tribute band are back with another great show, supported by the great Rainbow Rising - a tribute to Ritchie Blackmore’s Rainbow.

Twin Lizzy will be showcasing their recreation the iconic Live and Dangerous album and all the hits of the rock band fronted by Phil Lynott. Keeping music live is at the heart of Twin Lizzy – working hard to provide an authentic live experience whilst faithfully recreating the sound and vibe of this hugely successful band.

£12 Advance, £15 on door

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