Once again Kings Heath is turning into Birmingham’s funniest suburb – with almost 50 performances currently scheduled over four days – from the 24th to the 27th of July. 2024’s launch festival saw 34 shows across four days, opened by Helen Bauer, Barbara Nice and Celya AB and closed by Joe Lycett. In 2025 there’s established names, newcomers, and a huge amount of variety. From TV regulars to Comedy Karaoke, there is something for everyone.
We’re delighted that once again the festival has an impressive line-up. The launch show at the Hare and Hounds on the 24th features All Killa No Filla star Rachel Fairburn and fresh from Taskmaster, Fatiha El-Ghorri tops the bill at our Saturday night Gala with Barbara Nice. Elsewhere, Live at the Apollo’s Lindsey Santoro and Harriet Dyer are bringing their latest works in progress. We also have performances from the fabulous (and Edinburgh comedy award nominated) Josh Pugh, Sean Lock award winner Eric Rushton, Hayley Ellis, Funny Women finalist Rachel Baker and many many more.
It’s not all straight stand-up. There will also be special shows for children, Felt Tipsy with local legend Tat Vision, BadFlix film club, and Comedy Karaoke hosted by Edinburgh hero Masai Graham. Most shows are running on a pay as you feel basis, so audiences can take a chance on something new at no risk.
This year we’re using our special Saturday Gala show to pay tribute to our beloved volunteer, and friend, Cate McGee, who sadly died during last year’s festival. Cate was a massive supporter of the festival, and we hope McGee’s Comedy Gala does her proud.
Once again, Kings Heath Comedy Festival will be spread across lots of beloved local venues, with performances at venues including The Hare and Hounds, Circus Mash, how brave is the wren, Schooners, The Juke, Houblon, Fletchers and Grace and James.
Organisers Alice and Kate said: “We were blown away by everyone’s support last year, and loved seeing the venues full of people having a lovely time! We hope 2025 will be bigger and better and can’t wait to see you all again.”