West Berkshire Comedy Festival: Laughter Is The Best Medicine!

Liz Nicholls

Need a boost? A new comedy festival will raise lots of laughs at venues in Thatcham, Newbury and Hungerford between 17th & 26th July 

Laughter is the best medicine… so make sure to book in for a booster courtesy of West Berkshire Comedy Festival! 

Who will be there?

Acts coming to the area include Paul Kerensa, talented writer for the likes of Not Going Out & Miranda. Joining him are Samantha Day (Leicester Comedy Festival award-winner) and Nik Hill (Leicester Comedy Festival award-winner). Appearances also include US actor/comedian Mike Capozzola, Aussie comic Michael Shafar and the President of Lafta Republic, President Obonjo…. 

Where does the West Berkshire Comedy Festival take place?

Venues will include Ace Space in Newbury, Thatcham Rugby Club, Hungerford Football Club, St Nicolas Church and Falkland Cricket Club. Several local and national charities will be the main beneficiaries of any profits from ticket sales on selected events. 

Graeme Coulam, who heads up Thatcham Comedy Club and Hungerford Comedy Club organises this highlight. “The regular comedy nights in Thatcham and Hungerford are very popular and the aim of the festival is to bring more joy to more people, in more venues,” Graeme tells us.  

“We are bringing over a few acts who have already been a huge hit with our Thatcham and Hungerford audiences. As well as some you may not have seen before, but I know that you will enjoy. Of course, this event isn’t only for those who know us already. There is enough variety in these shows for there to be something for everyone. 

“The festival aims to bring affordable events to venues across the region, with many of the shows offering a “pay what you want” ticket price, and most shows under £10pp (although though some shows can be bought together on the same night). Many of the acts are bringing shows that are already on tour or in preparation for the Edinburgh Fringe in August. 

“Tickets are available from the festival website and unlike most ticketing options, there is no booking fee charge with any ticket.”

When is the festival?

The festival will begin at 7.30pm on Thursday 17th July, at Thatcham Rugby Club with Ian Crawford’s Accident Avoidance Training for Cutlery Users: Advanced & Improvers (£8pp). Followed, at 8.30pm, by Dinner with the President – President Obonjo (£8pp.) For the finale of the festival, enjoy Graeme Coulam’s Bedtime Stories for Children Over 18 at 9.30pm on Saturday 26th July – Croft Hall, Hungerford (£4pp).

Visit the website to check out & book in for all the other highlights too!