Get ready for a weekend of hilarity at the Bolton Comedy Festival

Well, The Octagon Theatre have a new Bolton Comedy Festival taking place Fri 12 – Sun 14 July 2024, the week after the election.

It features some of the top names in stand-up including headliners – Dara Ó Briain, Dylan Moran, Emmanuel Sonubi and Catherine Bohart, plus appearances from Jenny Ryan, Justin Moorhouse, Huge Davies, Chloe Petts, Sophie Duker, Lucy Porter, Ania Magiano, Steve Bugeja, Ryan Cullen, Angelos Epithemiou, Harry Stachini and Johnny Pelham with more acts still to be confirmed.

Bolton Comedy Festival at the Octagon Theatre

Over 20 comedians will perform at the Octagon across the 3 days and it will include daily headline performances in the Octagon’s main theatre, a series of work-in-progress shows in the intimate studio space and live podcast recordings with special guests.

Some of these stars play huge venues on their tours, so this Summer event will be a great opportunity for comedy fans to get up close and personal with some of the biggest names in stand-up.

Chief Executive Roddy Gauld commented: “Bolton has a reputation for funny people!

“With names such as Peter Kay, Diane Morgan, Sophie Willan, Paddy McGuinness, Stu Francis, Hylda Baker and so many more hailing from our town.

“We felt it was time that Bolton had its own Comedy Festival, to celebrate our famous sense of humour and comedy heritage.

Peter Kay at the Bolton Octagon

Peter Kay performed at the Octagon last year, and Roddy adds: “The response was phenomenal and audiences loved seeing a comedy genius up-close – the atmosphere felt electric!

“So, this new comedy festival is great opportunity to come together and enjoy fresh new material from some of the biggest names in stand-up, as well as chance to discover someone new.”

Bolton was recently named as Greater Manchester’s Town of Culture for 2024, so the Bolton Comedy Festival will be a great addition to the town’s cultural calendar.

Justin Moorehouse returns to the Bolton Comedy Festival

Local Bolton comedian Justin Moorhouse will return to the Octagon after sell-out shows in 2023 with brand new material and commented on his hometown festival: “Bolton has significantly contributed to my comedy career.

“Not only did it provide me with the incredible opportunity to join Peter Kay in Phoenix Nights and the various chances that followed, but some of my most cherished on-stage moments have taken place in the town.”

Tickets for Bolton Comedy Festival

For the full lineup of the Bolton Comedy Festival and to get tickets please click here