Returning to Glasgow from Wednesday 13–Sunday 31 March, Glasgow International Comedy Festival (GICF) will take over 45 venues with its 500 events, spanning stand-up, improv, live podcast recordings, theatre and workshops. 

Among the seasoned comics taking to a GICF stage this year are Maisie Adam, Frank Skinner, Stewart Lee, Ed Gamble and 2022 Edinburgh Comedy Award winner Sam Campbell, alongside Scottish legends Frankie Boyle, Susie McCabe, Mark Nelson and Elaine C Smith, who will all be performing their respective shows at the iconic King’s Theatre. 

Taking over venues like The Old Hairdresser’s, Oran Mor, The Stand Glasgow and Van Winkle West End are critically acclaimed comics including Vittorio Angelone, Josh Pugh, Tamsyn Kelly, Marjolein Robertson, Zara Gladman and Elliot Steel. Meanwhile, presenting new work in progress shows are Stuart McPherson, Marc Jennings, Amelia Bayler and Amy Matthews, as well as Colin Hoult, Kemah Bob and Kiri Pritchard-McLean. 

An exciting addition to the wider programme this year is a free six-week Introduction To Comedy course exclusively for women and marginalised genders. Whether you’re a novice or a complete beginner, apply by submitting this application form before Thursday 18 January. The course runs from Thursday 15 February–Thursday 21 March. Explaining the intention behind this fantastic initiative, Festival Director Krista MacDonald says, ‘led by the hilarious and talented Viv Gee, the six-week course will serve as a basic introduction to stand-up, aiming to boost confidence and encourage a more diverse new generation of talent to enter the wonderful world of comedy.’

‘Comedy is such an integral part of Glasgow’s DNA, from conversations with strangers on a night out to some of the world’s greatest comedians, comedy plays a vital role in our city’s cultural identity. Glasgow International Comedy Festival allows us to celebrate and shine a light on that whilst nurturing the next generation of talent and enjoying sets from beloved comedians. We’re looking forward to welcoming fans to iconic venues in the city’s East End, West End and everywhere in between. We’ll see you at a show!’

Find out more about GICF’s 2024 programme on their official site.