Join multi award winner Nina Gilligan for her hilarious hour of stand up 'Goldfish'. Memory loss, health anxiety, goldfish related trauma. Things you need to remember and the thing you can't forget. As heard on BBC Radio 4 and voted best Club Comic in the UK, Nina is Described as a Bolshier Mrs Merton (Skinny) and known as a vivacious, life embracing performer, with a cheeky ready wit. (Scotsman)

Award-winning drag king and London's loveable nature boy, Bi-Curious George, invites you into a raucous celebration of queerness and the animal kingdom. Repeat sell out performances at Edinburgh Fringe 2024, previously performed at Southbank Centre, Soho Theatre and Kew Gardens, this show aims to shatter the heteronormative binaries through which we view the natural world; a love letter to nature, combining stand up comedy, parody songs and drag in the form of a nature documentary.

Brought to you by the Artistic Director of SoreSlap Theatre, creators of SKETCH SLAP and More Blacks, More Dogs, More Irish, Alphabetti 2022, Geet Northern Show is Rhian Jades latest collaborative project developed with local Northern artists. After a successful run of Sketch Slap shows, that gave artists from marginalised areas/communities the opportunity to experiment and have their work shown professionally in different North East venues, the idea for a more defined and curated cabaret felt like the next step. Geet Northern Show will be a cabaret night, celebrating comedy, queerness, neurodiversity, disability, ethnic and racial diversity. With a talented and accomplished comedy troupe who have been developing shows for 2+ years, this show is a much needed platform for experimentation with new writing and artist relationships, resulting in a night that will give you the craic of your life! We will provide access notices for our venue, as well as information presented in multiple forms and sketches will be empowering (as well as side splittingly funny). You can expect weird, wonderful, wigs, comedy, poetry, song, dance, mash ups, flashbacks and much more Each event is completely unique and will feature special guests for the audience to enjoy, with the guarantee of being the most relaxed, safe and entertaining platform for Theatre out there. Championing its geet Northern artists and its geet Northern audience. Praise for Past Projects by Rhain Jade Theatre

Calling all you Kings, Queens and Everything in betweens! Mack and Mama Rhi are back with the cabaret of their dreams: The Pedro Pascal says Trans Rights Cabaret! This cabaret will celebrate local Trans icons, celebrity crushes and is a chance to explore the lifelong question: do you want to be with them, be them, or both? We welcome you to join us for a homage to Stars In Their Eyesbut Trans. Including a star-studded line up of acts ranging from drag, poetry, live music and more - all giving off that main character energy. Open to all LGBTQIA+ Folks, their allies, Zaddies and of course, most importantly Pedro Pascal!!! As part of Newcastle Pride, supported by Alphabetti Theatre. The cabaret will also feature as a part of Newcastle Pride's exciting Trans + Zone, with more details to be announced! Mack & Rhi are two creative cabaret artists who have joined forces to make queer, cult comedy, DIY cabarets with joy, silliness and marginalised voices at their centre. They were the makers of shows such as: JAWS (but gay), GAYLIEN, Twin Freaks and Pocket Sized Party, their first childrens show all taking place at Alphabetti Theatre. Mack (they/he) is a trans creative who makes work that is playful, educational, silly and raw, with an aim to help represent the underrepresented and advocate good vibes for the LGBTQIA+ community. Rhianne (she/her) is a queer creative who makes work that is satirically sexy, rebellious and mischievous with a wicked sense of humour that promotes body acceptance and joyous celebrations of love. Together they make work that holds chaos, silliness, alternative and heartwarming comedy with queer joy at its heart, creating friendly spaces for queer people and their pals to be themselves and celebrate their voices and experiences.

Mark Watson brings the Edinburgh Fringe to you! Why break the bank and go to the Fringe when you can have Mark Watson bring it to you? The gangly Taskmaster star himself has hand picked his favourite performers to premier their shows at the Edinburgh Fringe, but before that he is sending them to you!

Si Beckwith is a stand-up comedian and writer from Newcastle Upon Tyne. Si gigs regularly and prolifically, up and down the country, making sure to hone his craft on all manner of stages and is a respected, reliable and most importantly very funny stand-up comedian who has a creative approach to all he does. Si is a respected act and a renowned compere owing to his warm, effortless, sharp crowdwork and quick wit. Inventive, creative material and a masterful storyteller, Si is on a huge upward trajectory making waves in comedy and has demonstrated a real knack for making exciting things happen.

Harun Mushod has read the memoirs of David Cameron, Theresa May, Liz Truss, Nadine Dorries, Matt Hancock and Boris Johnson, so you dont have to. He will read out the worst parts and fact check them. You will then laugh at how stupid these people are. Thats the show. Its the worst idea for a show that Harun has ever had because, to research the show, he had to read the memoirs of David Cameron, Theresa May, Liz Truss, Nadine Dorries, Matt Hancock and Boris Johnson.

By popular demand, Alphabetti presents our writing group! Our call to action for writers seeking coziness and community. Whether you’re a person who wants to connect with other writers and break out of the isolation that comes with writing, a person that needs motivation to work on the unfinished draft or idea, or just wants to use the space to practice writing and create just for you, and just for fun - We think you’ll really get a lot out of the group. The group is peer led! If you have things to work on, great! If not, there will be set prompts, challenges, and activities to help get pen to paper, and our group leader, Audrey, will be around to give guidance or facilitate any discussions. It’s free to attend, and drop ins are welcome, but we ask that you book your place where possible, just so we know how much room we need.

A new stand-up hour from '...a rare gem of a comic', about the highs and lows of pursuing your lifelong passion and just loving a laugh. Don't you just love a laugh? If you've ever had a lifelong passion, a dream or a career you've strived for and maybe failed (or are currently failing) at, this is the show for you. Host of hit podcast I've Had A Ros, Lets Talk About Feelings. As seen on U&Daves The Comedy Guide to Life and BBC Scotland's Breaking The News.

From Nashville to Newcastle, indulge in a world of songwriting with one of the North Easts first Nashville-style Writers Rounds. Led by Sandancer, Eve Simpson, the round will feature long-term collaborators, friends and songwriting inspirations, including Sunderlands-own Marty Longstaff, Edinburgh-based Mike McKenzie, and Ballycastle native Dara Dubh (da-ra doo). All four songwriters will offer the stories behind their songs before playing an intimate, acoustic version of their song, encouraging the other writers to improvise along. We have no idea what to expect, but we know it will be both heartbreaking and hilarious. Eve Simpson: Sandancer-born Eve Simpson has been reaching audiences across the world with her folk and americana-infused pop, performing to crowds from New Zealand to Nashville. Combining the folk-pop influences of Hozier and Maggie Rogers, with the nostalgia of Joan Baez and Patsy Cline, Eves classic voice and playful storytelling leaves audiences reeling for more. Under a new publishing deal, Eve has written with prolific writers such as Beth Nielsen Chapman, Shelly Peiken, and Pam Sheyne, working towards her debut album. Chosen as BBC Scotland's Track of the Week, The Lists Future Sound Artist, and Horus Musics Spotlight Artist, Eve has sold out two headline tours across the UK, performing at London Fashion Week, Celtic Connections, Edinburgh Hogmanay, and Edinburghs Festival Fringe. With airplay across BBC Introducing and BBC 6 Music, Eve writes for other projects across film, TV, and trailer, notably writing for a FOCAL International award-winning film. Marty Longstaff: The Lake Poets is Marty Longstaff, a multi-instrumentalist and songwriter from Sunderland, England. Inspired by artists such as Elvis Perkins, Villagers, Feist, Fionn Regan, John Martyn, Wilco, Damien Rice & Bright Eyes, Martys output as The Lake Poets is as haunting as it is beautiful. Described as 'Quietly Devastating', 'Accomplished and Intelligent ', and 'Spellbinding and Heart-breaking, Marty's music regularly silences audiences and turns heads. Lead single 'Your Face' from The Lake Poets debut album has received over 8 million Spotify plays as well steady daytime airplay on BBC Radio 2, Radio X, and BBC 6 Music. In recent years, Longstaff has earned his reputation as a jewel in the crown of northern songwriting with self-penned Shipyards featuring in the opening credits of Sunderland Till I Die. Mike McKenzie: Mike McKenzie (he/him) is a BBC award winning singer-songwriter and producer based in Edinburgh, Scotland, often compared to Maggie Rogers, Tom Odell, Ben Howards, Noah Kahan, and Tom Misch. McKenzies laid back, inclusive shows have proved a smash with audiences around the UK and beyond. Touring has seen him perform at iconic venues across the UK including King Tuts and TRNSMT Festival in Glasgow, Queens Hall in Edinburgh, Green Note in London, The Drawing Room in Chesham and several SoFar Sounds shows including co-curating a SoFar Edinburgh PRIDE event and playing to a sold out crowd in Paris. His music has received huge support from Jo Whiley on BBC Radio 2, Grant Stott, Roddy Hart and Janice Forsyth on BBC Radio Scotland, Jim Gellatly on Amazing Radio and Ruth Clark at RT among other stations across the UK. Dara Dubh: JBL & Martin Garrix Music Academy top 10 UK artists, featured in The List 2024 Hot 100 and nominated for Best Newcomer at the SAMAs, Dara Dubh is known for her genre defying harp playing and distinct voice. Dubh has burst into the Scottish music scene, receiving airplay on BBC Scotland and Ulster, with the last track from her debut EP Bubble Town, receiving Track of the Week on BBC Scotland, and was scouted to be a soloist in the world renowned Edinburgh Military Tattoo. Challenging the idea of an instrument often associated with traditional music, the harp has found new life in Daras hands as she pushes the boundaries of its capabilities, infusing indie-pop sensibilities with her authentic vocals.

Following a 5 star tour of her show that is now a full special on ITVX, and the launch of her subsequent show as a vinyl record, Amy Matthews is scratching about in the dirt for new jokes and new ideas. Come and help find them with her. This will be BRAND new stuff. How exciting! Thrilling. Daunting! Exclusive, oooo. Whimsical! Playful! Funny. As seen on tour with Ed Byrne, Tom Allen, Sarah Keyworth, Tom Davis, and Suzi Ruffell, as well as on Comedy Central and heard on Off Menu. A must-see [] a searing wit, she makes the deeply personal feel like a universal truth - Rolling Stone.

Hailed as an intensely moving new musical drama it tells the inspirational story of how Walter Tull - grandson of a Barbadian slave and orphaned at just eight years old - rose to prominence as the first black footballer to play at the highest level of the domestic game in the UK before achieving another historic breakthrough as the first man of his heritage to be commissioned as an Officer in the British Army. Written by award winning playwright Dougie Blaxland and including 16 hauntingly beautiful original songs OUR LITTLE HOUR is a show not to be missed.

If there's one thing to say about Lizzie Lovejoy, it's that they're a right Gobby Lass! Join them for a spoken word celebration of the North East, filled with local stories, humour and a little bit of Northern dialect because the North is a tale worth telling.

A One-Clown Drag Show. Dealing with grief, self-discovery and finding comfort in comedy Come one! Come all! Join us as Sweet Boy, a non-binary drag clown, tells us a vibrant and heartfelt story that takes you on an unforgettable journey of self-discovery, resilience, and the quest for comfort. Beginning against the backdrop of a quiet seaside town, the story unfolds as our protagonist grapples with the challenges of being seenand often misjudgedby the world around them. The journey continues through to the vibrant, lively and overwhelming city of Manchester, before taking us further north up to Newcastle where they found their feet, and their chosen family. Inspired by the light and laughter of their mother, this is the story of how they find solace and self-expression in the world of drag and clownery, igniting a passion that propels them forward. Sweet Boy navigates the complexities of grief, gender identity and queer community, when our hero is then challenged with the weight of inner demons that threaten to dim their newfound light. Through a fantastical ride of powerful anthems we all know and love, comedic mixes of classic songs, and intimate storytelling from the words of Sweet Boy themself, this show is a celebration of love, acceptance, and the beauty of being unapologetically yourself. You can expect a 60 minute non-stop musical storytelling journey, as Sweet Boy faces and reimagines the trials and tribulations that made them the clown they are today. Join us for this exhilarating drag cabaret spectacular filled with roaring laughter, heartfelt truths, unexpected twists, and unforgettable performances that will have you cheering for more, but most importantly, leaving feeling empowered.

Originally from Teesside, Katie Doherty is an award winning singer-songwriter. She formed the Navigators in 2018. Their power and dynamic is often described as much bigger than its component parts. Katies songs hang on the precipice of the current state of the world. The songs paint sweeping pictures and intricate portraits and exquisite story telling is at the heart of all of Katies work. Her work is rooted in a craggy North East landscape where Katie resides on a hill in the North Pennines. The music exudes heart, warmth and melody which leaves you feeling uplifted and welcomed. Their latest album Flow produced by Mattie Foulds (Karine Polwart, Rachel Newton, Adam Holmes and The Embers) was released in Summer 2022 and promptly entered the official UK Folk Chart in the Top 30.Their 2019 album And Then led them to live sessions on BBC Radio 2s Mark Radcliffe Show and BBC Radio 3 In Tune. They have toured nationally taking in Sage Gateshead, Cambridge Folk Festival, Manchester, Warwick and Ely Folk Festivals to name a few. With Katie on piano and vocals, the Navigators signature sound is built upon the talents of world class Folk musicians Dave Gray on melodeon (Vrldens Band, Cri Du Canard) and Grace Smith on Fiddle (Grace Smith Trio, Cri Du Canard). When not out and about performing her songs, Katie writes music for all kinds of theatre. You may have heard her songs in the North East in productions from Northern Stage, November Club, Cap-a-Pie, Open Clasp and Tin Arts to name a few. Katie is passionate about the value of music for our future generations.

Get ready to set sail with The Jack Tars, Sea Shanty Band, as they make port in Newcastle to bring you an unforgettable night of raucous footstompin entertainment! Formed in Yorkshire in 2020, they have been making waves in the UK and abroad as they have played International Maritime Festivals in Germany, Netherlands and Poland. Theyve been captivating hearts in every port with their roaring harmonies, crisp fiddle lines and footstompin approach to this once not so popular genre which has seen a huge resurgence in recent years! You can expect a lively and powerful performance from the young folk band as they take you on a musical maritime voyage showcasing some of the best seafaring music there is! Support is from Kyle Lennox (Melodeon), Noah Fenton (Guitar) and Alex Lord (Fiddle), 3 fantastic young folk musicians from The Tars who perform by themselves as solo acts! This evening is not to be missed after a recently sold out at Toft House in Middlesbrough!

She's twenty-something, she's amounted to nothing, and she's accidentally just made the mother of all promises. Follow Lottie as she ill-advisedly becomes a surrogate for her sister, Freya, and her hapless brother-in-law, Rhuaridh. Now Lotties constantly tired, none of her clothes fit, and having a belly buddy is sort of ruining her life. But if thats true, why is Lottie feeling the best shes ever felt? Call it baby brain, call it Stockholm Syndrome, call it whatever you like, but suddenly Lottie is starting to feel strangely attached to her cargo. And besides, the child is legally hers until papers are signed postpartum, so she could change her mind at any time. BAIRNS is a stretch-marked, tender, and consistently laugh-out-loud funny dramedy that asks how far you would go for your sibling. Or your nibling? Or your child? Exploring sisterhood, selflessness, selfishness and surrogacy, BAIRNS is part-stand up, part-theatre and a wickedly funny piece that speaks to the heart, (A Young(ish) Perspective).

Every night in New Delhi, Uday Kumar (UK) answers panicked calls to the Goldmine Crypto GB Helpline fantasising about being British himself, filling his YouTube channel with visions of a sophisticated new life of affluence, fish and chips and tea with the royals. Then a chance conversation one tea break reveals how he might make it all a reality. And At dawn a mere week later, he leaves the call centre for ever and boards his first ever flight, to take his place amongst the English. What happens next is the subject of Mohit Mathurs hilarious and poignant one- man- play of high hopes humbled in Hounslow and an Influencer stripped of influence amidst the brutal reality of the UK care sector, asking how and why, each year, hundreds of young men like UK vanish without trace. A rare chance to rethink much youve assumed about those who hope to live amongst us in a first piece from an exciting new playwright and west end performer, in collaboration with one the UKs most experienced theatre makers.

Step into the magic of the season at our Christmas Spectacular! Join us for an evening filled with poems and stories that capture the true spirit of Christmas. Bring your family, work colleagues and friends to experience a cheerful atmosphere that embraces the magic of Christmas. With a record player on stage playing Christmas records, a stage covered in Christmas lights and tinsel, this is the perfect show for nights out in December with audiences treated to relaxed, seasonal festive poems and stories that have already proved popular at Christmas shows across the UK, from writer, theatre-maker and Radio 4 regular John Osborne. From the creator of hit theatre show John Peels Shed and Sky 1 sitcom After Hours, directed by Craig Cash. Stewart Lee is a big fan of Johns wonderful storytelling, and you will be too.

A gobshite and a drama queen, Coopsie and Brogsie put the world to rights by presenting its wrongs. Combining hard hitting poetry and side splitting comedy, theyve got something for everyone - except the tories. In 2008, a Spike Milligan anthology and the tiny book of Che Guevera sat beneath a christmas tree. At this moment, a little left-wing left-field loudmouth with more meter than Mo Farrah, more nonsense than a sapling touching Tolkien tree, and spouting more shite than a government coastal policy, was born in the form of Cooper Robson. Ask him about his new book! Awakened to her poetic penchant much later in life, while getting her degree in Theatre and Performance, through segments of Dr. John Cooper Clarke and a burning desire to find a way to make people listen, because she has a lot to say, Brogan Brannan found her place in the world of slam poetry. She started speaking words in response to rising cases of male on female violence, and to address issues that bridge the gap between personal and universal. Ask her about her audio album! Now two up and coming spoken word artists Brogan and Cooper share the stage and their views in an unmissable, Newcastle Fringe exclusive, tag team war of the words.

Her door is always open She really must get that fixed! Ms. Quadrant will see you now! Step into the world of everyones boss, The Delta Quadrant, and play a fly on the wall watching what the boardroom broad gets up to when she thinks no ones around. The Delta Quadrants Open Door Policy sees our entrepreneurial protagonist in her office with the audience privy to a day-in-the-life as she conducts meetings, pitches new schemes, demands outrageous things from her personal assistant Stephanie and performs musical numbers as part of a descent into money-hungry madness. While anyone and everyone can boast of being a billionaire today, let this blonde-bobbed CEO explain how to do it backwards and boozed up after one too many martinis at lunch. The Delta Quadrants Open Door Policy is part stand-up comedy (dont tell her that), part drag show (definitely dont tell her that) and 100% seriously bad business. A relative newcomer in the world of performance, The Delta Quadrant has delighted audiences, bringing her fiscal frivolity to stages across the North East, working with Curious Arts as part of their comedy programming, at the first ever Bishop Auckland Pride, and becoming a fan-favourite and Miss Congeniality of Drag Idol 2024.

Flowers and gunpowder. Restlessness and Hope. True stories of resistance brought to life through striking puppetry and live folk music. Inside of me there is a restlessness. Something needs to happen. Theres something I should do, something I should understand, something I should start. I dont know what it is yet. But I know when I do it It will be beautiful. Inspired by true stories of the Portuguese fascist dictatorship, Tales from our revolution is a visual puppetry show for hopeless times. Inspired by poems of the time, and scored throughout with music of the revolution, this show honours the poets, activists and everyday people that help topple fascism, exploring the power of the individual within its community. Created by Made by Raccoons, accompanied by the live music of Frankie Insley, this is a show reminding us of the importance of caring for one another through hard times and a testament to the revolutionary potential of ordinary people.

Motherhood, Racism... and Fancy Dress? Three stories. Two emerging voices. One unmissable evening of original theatre. From The Northern School of Art Class of 2025, Arun Graves-Kochhar and Isabelle Sander, bring a fresh, fearless collection of work to the stage. Award-winning solo show Milkshake explores identity, anger, and belonging in modern Britain. Rich Pickings, a bold and intimate monologue, unpacks the unspoken pressures of motherhood and ambition. F inally, the duo come together for the premiere of their co-written duologue, Right on Time where two strangers, one train delay, and a couple of awkward outfits lead to unexpected connection. Thought-provoking, funny, and full of heart Foot in the Door marks the arrival of two compelling new voices in theatre.

It Must Have Been a Tuesday is a unique performance exploring what happens when you deprive an opera singer of props, set, costume - even character. Inspired by the hit US storytelling event The Moth, Hull Urban Operas event is an exercise in warm, direct communication of a true and momentous event in the lives of two people. The stories arent easy to tell but they are both powerful and mesmerising. Developed over time and created as part of its nurturing of Yorkshire talent, the show sees two opera singers speak and sing without artifice about a life-changing moment, with no support other than a solo violin. The heartfelt true stories about learning to embrace ones ethnicity and coming to terms with newly-discovered siblings in Brazil are told by Yorkshire-based Mezzo Joanna Gamble and Bass-Baritone Neil Balfour, accompanied by Ellie Gaynard with music by HUO Artistic Director Russell Plows. Hull Urban Opera is an innovative collective in East Yorkshire specialising in immersive and digital opera. Its "Bumps in the Night" series is a family favourite in Hull and its digital Punch & Judy opera, "Crocodile", was recently broadcast on Sky Arts.

92 Beats is proud to present: The Rubbish Puppets! A new musical exploring depression, loneliness and the magic of rubbish. Featuring original songs by Molly ODonnell and puppets made by Courtney Nixon, The Rubbish Puppets follows Girl, hidden away in her bedroom, alone by design. Still, company seems to find her anyway when her messy room comes to life. The Rubbish Puppets bring her much needed friendship, but theres only so much a rag tag group of animate objects can do. Especially when they remind her of the very things she is hiding from. We'll love you, no strings attached!

Directed and written by Elen Bodey, previously known for her award-winning solo show The Tale of The Star and The Dragon, her next piece A Tail for Our future explores themes of animal cruelty, and the effects humans have had on animals and will be brought to life using puppets and shadow puppets. Set in a world where an unknown virus has taken hold of animals causing them to attack mankind...the humans retaliate in a similar way. Humans are urged to remain indoors for safety and have no contact with wildlife. Any animal sightings must be reported to the authorities The foxes have since been destroyed Those found protecting the creatures will be We follow a girl struggling to believe the stories in the news, feeling helpless and alone in the world until one night. A fox calls out into the dark, calling directly for her.

A hilariously silly, award-winning joke show where children (and maybe even a few parents) take the mic to tell their favourite gags. Created by comedian Philip Simon during lockdown to entertain children (and give parents a well-deserved homeschooling break), this is the hilariously silly joke show where your kids are the stars. Philip holds everything together compering the start of the show, but its not long before the children are given, free reign to come up and wreak havoc with their best jokes, whilst their grown ups cower in their seats, scared of what they might say! Expect silliness, cheeky laughs and almost certainly a few references to poo! Seriously, it's like herding cats, but the laughs your kids will have and get make it all worthwhile! Winner of the Best Kid's Show at Morecambe Fringe and Buxton Fringe.

Milo Edwards: An Hour of New Material at a Slightly Reduced Price That Shows Respect for The Paying Public Critically acclaimed comedian Milo Edwards returns to Newcastle with an hour of new material that hes working on. If you have enjoyed any of Milos previous tour shows or popular comedy podcasts you may enjoy this. Its not quite finished but nothing ever is. Previous Praise for Milo Edwards: 'Edwards has quietly become one of the UKs smartest, most vital stand-ups.' Chortle 'Near perfect.' The Wee Review 'Milo Edwards comedy is a little like marmalade.' Broadway Baby 'He must surely go onwards and upwards. The Daily Telegraph Dexterous delivery with inch-perfect accuracy. The List Leicester Comedy Festival Best Show Nominee 2023 & 2024

An insight into the wonderful, yet challenging world of autism... From one particularly silly individual. Dylan Ward is autistic. He has his own way of thinking and his own way of doing things, but no one seems to understand him. How do you navigate a world which operates on a completely different wavelength to the one that youre on? Following its critically acclaimed run at Camden Fringe last year, and based on real experiences of growing up autistic, Tides (An Autism Story) combines Monty Pythonesque humour with a touch of real-world drama to offer an insight into the wonderful, yet challenging world of autism... From one particularly silly individual. "Nothing short of brilliant", "Powerful & Profound" ★★★★ - Theatre & Tonic "A masterclass in storytelling", "This is the kind of show which theatre is all about" ★★★★ - A Young(ish) Perspective

Kathryn Haywood returns after the sell-out, five-star run of her Offie-nominated debut show Yoga & Sex. For Women (Over 40): Sheer delight non-stop hilarity Reviews Hub; Excellent to watch maestro of the side-eye Chortle; A masterclass in character-led comedy LondonTheatre1 In her brand new show, Magic & Sex, Kath has decided to delve into the art of illusion and become a fully-fledged magician. She will astound with her command of a deck of cards, she will baffle with her feats of mentalism, she will confuse with what she keeps under her hat. She can read your mind before you can say Hey Presto, and produce the two of clubs before you can say Abra-Kath-Dabra! Trust me, youve never seen magic done quite like this and chances are you never will again. Come and see the hottest new conjuror on the block and leave with your head spinning and your stomach churning. But in a good way...probably could have worded that better. Oh and sex.

BREAKING NEWS: Two Opposing Political Leaders Snog At A Conference! But will they make love or war? Two rival nations. Emory is the Foreign Secretary for the Right Wing and slightly totalitarian Herulia. Milona is the Ambassador for the Left Wing yet slightly sadistic Gepidia. When an argument between two fisherwomen breaks out and turns into a battle on the border, tanks are deployed by both countries and its up to Emory and Milona to dissolve the tension and stop the upcoming war. However, do they do this a little too well? And why is Milona looking so fine in that suit? A night of complimentary margaritas and a hotel room later, Emory and Milona wake up next to each otherNAKED. No one can find out!!! But this is 2025, and everyone has smartphones. So basically, theyre fucked. World Leader Pretend is a bonkers rollercoaster through two fictional countries and their political landscapes. It tackles themes of intimacy, queerness in politics, the sexualisation of women politicians, celebrity culture, and how lust can impact a nation.

IANtrospection - Ian younghusbands hilarious look at life with a disability after an accident left him with life changing injuries. Ian Younghusband is a standup comedian who is also a full-time wheelchair user, after breaking his neck racing Motocross, sustaining a spinal cord injury. He describes himself as a comedic storyteller and performer. IANtrospection looks at his life pre-disability as an Architect and former North East Motocross champion. The show focuses on his perception of how other people saw him, through to his life now as a disabled man and how this has changed (if at all). Expect to hear stories of real life events, many of which are unique to experiencing an accident resulting in life changing injuries and then living an active life as a wheelchair user. Jokes and anecdotes can be quite dark, often involving inappropriate interactions with strangers. The show hopes to challenge peoples attitude and perception of disability, helping them to consider their own actions, in a hilarious way. Ianmade light of his disability throughout his set with close to the bone jokes and descriptions of how it affects his life, he kept the crowd on their toes with his shock factor, really strong story teller and entertainer - The Stand (Newcastle) Ian younghusband is a mine of information on how to have sex with a broken neck and stupid hands. Fans of Miley Cyrus will never see her in the same way again - Kate Copstick (The Scotsman) Effortless with immaculate timing - Danny Posthill (BGT Finalist).

If you died, who would you want to haunt? 'Ghost' is built on Emma Wheeler and Anna Appleby's life experience as queer, neurodivergent women - stories that have not historically been told in opera, tinged with comedy, trauma, and love. This opera is the coming-together of two musical worlds, from Appleby's Glyndebourne and BBC Philharmonic opera composition history and Emma Wheeler's rich mezzo vocals, to Norrisette and Ros Gold's grungy underground electronica and DIY drag fashion extravagance. Prepare for a ghost story like no other!

Theres an irony that cuts to the bone on Far From Nowhere, the new album from the critically acclaimed singer, songwriter and guitarist Josienne Clarke. Long admired for her crystalline voice and unflinching lyrical gaze, Clarke has always had an ability to evoke a communal melancholy. But with this LP, recorded at a remote Scottish cabin, shes achieved the feat of stripping away the barriers between artist and listener. What emerges is a record of remarkable intimacy and integrity as Clarke embraces stillness and vulnerability. She sought total isolation but ended up creating something even more profoundly connective. Clarke has always been unafraid to ask questions with no clear answers, and here she gives herself no hiding place. In that sense, this is her most complete artistic statement yet as she spins rawness into elegance. While she admits it may not join the pantheon of classic isolation records Im not in control of the historic time and wider context in which Im creating and its not for me to be diverted by whether my output has any place in popularity, she says it still sits firmly in the lineage of Bruce Springsteens Nebraska, Bon Ivers For Emma, Forever Ago, and the lo-fi solo work of Adrianne Lenker.

Tête à Tête: The Opera Festival returns in 2025 for its 18th edition, celebrating a major milestone as it expands beyond London for the first time. The festival opens in Newcastle highlighting collaborations with North East artists, the Royal Northern Sinfonia and Tête à Tête developed over several years, marking a bold step in the festival’s ongoing commitment to regional creative partnerships.

Suthering consists of Julu and Heg, whose harmonies weave effortlessly through their original songs, paired with gentle guitar and emotive piano arrangements, transporting audiences into a world of timeless storytelling. Known for their chemistry and humour on stage, they effortlessly intertwine their important messages about the state of our climate, social conscience, and the importance of community and connecting with nature. They champion female characters, creating new narratives for women and unearthing the female heroines of the folk tradition. 2024 marked the release of their second studio album Leave A Light On. Produced by BBC Radio 2 Folk Award Winner, Sean Lakeman (Levellers, Seth Lakeman), the album is a bold new direction in sound for the duo. A poignant and powerful exploration of themes affecting the social and political landscape, Leave A Light On is a collection of personal reflections, captivating stories and modern-day songs of protest and unity. In 2022, they made history by setting up the first-ever pride event in their hometown. Tavistock Pride received acknowledgment from national and local press, radio and received an endorsement from Olympic athlete Tom Daley. Tavi Pride continues as an annual event which includes a large parade and festival. Julu and Heg are passionate about advocating for the LGBTQ+ community and for the rights of women and other marginalised people, through their music and through community engagement.

Fuzz Bats Gigs presents an unmissable line-up of the best in UK punk: Brighton-based DIY psych-punk legendDez Dare is on tour fresh off the release of his new album 'CHERYL! Your Love Shines Down Like A Supernova's Death'. Support comes from Edinburgh's garage/synth punk prophets Sha Rivari & the Maybes. Their claim to fame is last year's support slot with Jon Spencer at The Cluny. Local fuzzed-up disco fart-rockersSuper Burner will be opening the show. The band includes members of Ten Benson, Nine Tons, Collapsed Lung and Apache Viking. Check out 'Don't Die' off their debut album 'Pick Your Own' that was released in February this year. Find it here.

Gareth Dennis is Britains foremost commentator on railways. His book How Railways will Fix the Future: the Essential Brilliance of the Iron Road (Repeater, 2024) shows how railways are key to the fight for equality and a just transition. In this edition of Lort Burn Specials he will be talking to us about trains, politics, and how to build a better future by riding the rails. With readings from locally-based novelists Yara Rodrigues Fowler (one of Grantas Best Young British Novelists), Chaplin Award winner Lyndsey Ayre and Jake Trelease, plus music from guitarist Lucy Valentine, the second Lort Burn Specials continues our mission to Make Newcastle Counterculture Again.

A surreal, witty quest to find historys iconic Japanese women. What happens when you grow up with heroes that look nothing like you? And what happens when you find some that do? Join Houmi on her odyssey to find new heroes in this surreal and witty show that celebrates centuries of iconic, badass, Japanese women. Houmis bedroom is plastered with posters of her childhood heroes. From Marilyn to Mel B, Tudor Queens to the Spice Girls, these are the women shes spent her whole life unquestioningly adoring. As she gazes on their faces, the penny drops: none of them look like her. Houmi realises shes never tried to seek out heroes that share her heritage. Thus begins the quest of all quests, where we meet an 11th Century samurai, two powerhouse suffragettes and a legendary queen. And best of all, its literally, totally autobiographical. Well... Sort of. In The Beginning Woman Was The Sun is Houmi Miuras debut one woman show, supported by HOME, Unity, Arts Council England, New Earth Theatre and Horizons Collective.

Straight from the swamp to set the record straight Come and behold the Florida folktale legend, captured and shipped to her UK debut, for your twisted delight! Florida's tourism outreach team has worked tirelessly to capture, neutralise, and raise the last-ever Snoligoster in the ways of the Florida Man. Come marvel at the ageless abomination's propellor tail; stay for a live demonstration of the power of a Florida upbringing on even the basest of creatures' psyches. This show's got everything: oral folklore, C-list cult deconstruction, and Jimmy Buffet dance breaks. 'Snoligoster' is a loving exposeand cautionary tale attempting to answer the question, 'Why IS Florida so weird?' This camp, swampland fantasia from London's local Floridian uncovers just what can happen when any old tall tale can be taken for truth.

Where the beats are smooth, the vibes are high, and the cake is always on point. No booze, just energy! Step into a night where music, community, and cake come together to create something special. With live DJs spinning the best of disco, house, soul, funk, and more, this is more than just a party its a celebration of connection. Were creating a space for everyone to come together, dance, and enjoy the groove without the pressure of alcohol. Savour our range of mocktails, zero percent and low-alcohol options, indulge in mouth-watering cakes, and enjoy the company of like-minded people in a vibrant, inclusive atmosphere. Whether youre here to vibe to the beats, meet new friends, or just enjoy some delicious treats, Nought Percent Club is your new go-to for good music, good company, and good cake. Come for the music, stay for the cake.

Father JC - the Irish Drag Priest with mass appeal is taking a divine pilgrimage across the nation, bringing his big mass to the masses. JCs Holy Show is life-changing, iconic, epic, glamorous and just fabulous! But theres one small catchhe hasnt written it yet. With the help of an amateur DJ, he will amp up the sacrament with the big hymns, the bops, the beats and anthems! What could possibly go wrong? Written and performed by multi-award-nominated artist Laura Wyatt OKeeffe, this drag comedy extravaganza blends rituals and raves, faith and fun, in a divine hour of chaos and celebration on the dancefloor. Expect big laughs, bigger performances, and the kind of soul-searching you wont find in any pew. JC has graced the stages at Soho Theatre, Roundhouse, and Clapham Grand, and blessed the crowds at All Together Now, Wilderness, Latitude, Mighty Hoopla, and Margate Pride. Now, its time for you to experience the holy hilarity for yourself! Get ready for an unforgettable night of music, mayhem, and a little bit of holinessbecause this is JCs Holy Show!

Goddess myths, X-rated stories, spells and songs for adults only! Sly, subversive, spectacular - pioneering storyteller Sally Pomme Clayton evokes goddesses from across the globe. Her hilarious, mysterious, powerful stories put goddesses in the centre of the narrative. Pomme entwines myths with memories, spells with songs, comedy with ceremony. She brings ancient myths to contemporary life with dynamic spoken-word, strange musical sounds, gesture and ritual. Meet: Vesta the fiery virgin; Cybele the mother goddess who fathered a child; Ishtar Goddess of Love and War who journeys to the Land of the Dead. Follow the goddess from creator to crone, virgin to warrior, from lust to destruction to rebirth. And everyone gets a message from the goddess's oracle to take home! The Mighty Goddess is X-rated and for adults only. The stories are drawn from Pomme's latest book The Mighty Goddess (The History Press 2023). The book combines myth with art - 52 goddess myths are illustrated with fabulous papercuts by artist Sophie Herxheimer. This performance has appeared at: Tinners Moon Festival, Ashburton Arts; Words in Watchet Lit Fest; festivals in Sweden, Dresden, Leipzig; Capstone Theatre; Brigsteer Village Hall; Cheltenham Literature Festival; The British Museum; Guesthouse Storytellers Newhaven; Beyond the Border Storytelling Festival; East Anglian Storytelling Festival; Brockwell Barn; Watkins Bookshop; Chener Books; Rhythm Tree Festival.

An Interactive Ghost Story Show New work in progress show by interactive comedian Daniel Nicholas. In the seaside town of Scargill there is an abandoned amusement arcade, which the locals have said has been haunted for years. Amateur Ghost Buster Danny Nix has assembled a team of other like minded GhostBusters (you the audience) to rid this town of ghouls forever. Five Nights at Freddies meets Taskmaster in this brand new show by award winning comedian Daniel Nicholas whose talent for engaging with the audience is unparalleled (Stage Side Reviews) Presented by Ingenious Fools Ltd

Life and Limb Puppets in association with Alphabetti Theatre present:At Sea What was lost, can be found. A fantastical puppet adventure. At Sea is an uplifting tale of a sailors triumph over darkness; Non-verbal, with stunning projections and music. A life-affirming family show for anyone aged 6+. Our Sailor is lost without his Compass. His quest takes him through Coral Reef, a Sirens Lair, right to the bottom of the ocean. Will he ever make it out of the belly of the beast and find his way home? Created by Life and Limb Puppets (previous show Dragon) in association with Alphabetti Theatre. Supported with public funding by Arts Council England, National Theatre and Horse + Bamboo.

If you died, who would you want to haunt? ‘Ghost’ is built on Emma Wheeler and Newcastle-born Anna Appleby’s life experience as queer, neurodivergent women – stories that have not historically been told in opera, tinged with comedy, trauma, and love. This opera is the coming-together of two musical worlds, from Appleby’s Glyndebourne and BBC Philharmonic opera composition history and Emma Wheeler’s rich mezzo vocals, to Norrisette and Rosé Gold’s grungy underground electronica and DIY drag fashion extravagance. Prepare for a ghost story like no other!

4 stories, 2 versions, 1 question. Is Courtney telling the truth? This is a show that is 100% truthful and also full of lies. Courtney Buchner is back after her 2024 Edinburgh Fringe, 4 star, sell-out hit and shes ready to admit that sheis a liar. Or she at least plays a little with the truth but we all do right? Right?! Big, If True explores the currency of over-sharing and how we trade our stories to get people to like us even if maybe we should have kept them to ourselves (like the time Courtney shared about carrying her friends poo in a Sainsburys bag. Sorry Briony. And sorry for bringing it up again in a press release). 4 stories, 2 versions, 1 question. Is Courtney telling the truth? Big, if True blends stand-up, theatricality, audience interaction, and queer absurdism and promises to be something truly different at EdFringe. Its a deeply personal, joyfully chaotic, and genuinely funny hour about honesty, the lies we tell ourselves and the lies we tell others. Courtney said: I am so genuinely excited to bring Big, if True a show about truth and comedy and really how far youll stretch a story to make your ex look bad. I cant wait to explore with each audience how even those of us who think we are 100% honest all manipulate and twist stories (whether thats to get a laugh or even to protect ourselves). In this show sometimes the lie gets the laugh, sometimes the truth does and more often than notIve forgotten which one is which. Its fascinating exploring how slowly over time we shift and change our own memories but I think if youve ever bent the truth to make a better anecdote (or just to make yourself look good), then hopefully this ones for you. - 30 Million Online Views - Associate artist at The Hope Theatre - Sell-Out Run at the Edinburgh Fringe 2024

Welcome. Welcome to The Ceremony. Thank you. Youre welcome. An improvised, interactive ritual part sermon, part group therapy, part comedy show. Not a cult. Crafted afresh from audience responses, the show changes every single time its performed. We rummage through our collective pasts/presents/futures/other to see what kind of ceremony emerges. Or is that the ceremony? Who are we? What are we doing? Does this mean anything? What does meaning mean? Hmm. Come in. Take a seat. Contemplate your life. Contemplate my life. Join me. And let The Ceremony begin Playfully exploring ritual and tradition in the modern world, catch this one-of-a-kind theatrical metaphysical nonsense ahead of its return to Edinburgh Fringe at Summerhall! The Telegraphs funniest shows - Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2024 WINNER - Pick of the Week - Adelaide Fringe Festival 2024 "Raw, wild and exhilarating" - Binge Fringe Brilliantly funny a master at drawing the audience out of their shell - Glam Adelaide "Hilarious, moving, provocative ... extraordinary quintessential fringe experience" - The List "Great skill" - The Scotsman "A spectacular feat of ingenuity" - The Crumb "Interrogates what theatre is - and what it means to gather together ... If I were not being held to a demon schedule, I'd book to see The Ceremony every night" - Lyn Gardner, The Stage