Harrogate Comedy Festival 'thrilled' to welcome Reece Shearsmith Maisie Adam and Richard Ayoade

Harrogate Theatre is preparing to welcome some of the biggest names in comedy as Harrogate Comedy Festival returns this autumn.

Another outstanding programme of stand-up, improv, storytelling and family entertainment, this year's line-up includes Richard Ayoade, Harry Enfield, Alexei Sayle, Maisie Adam, Miriam Margolyes, Jason Byrne, Reece Shearsmith and many more.

"We're delighted to once again bring such a varied programme to Harrogate, offering something for everyone, whether you're a lifelong comedy fan or simply looking for a great night out,” said Marcus Romer, Harrogate Comedy Festival programmer.

"Harrogate Comedy Festival has become one of the highlights of our year, attracting some of the country's finest comedians alongside exciting new voices.”

Now in its 17th year, Harrogate Comedy Festival has built a strong reputation for bringing nationally-acclaimed acts to North Yorkshire, while providing audiences with opportunities to discover rising stars before they become household names.

The festival will open with the hilarious A Star Wars Improv Show: The One-Man Made-Up Movie Parody, before audiences can enjoy the Olivier Award-winning Showstopper! The Improvised Musical.

The ever-popular Hyena Lounge Comedy Club also returns as part of the festival, showcasing some of the very best comedians on the UK circuit.

This year's programme sees Harrogate’s very own favourite Maisie Adam return with her brand-new tour Whatsherface, before hosting Frank's Fund Comedy Gala.

Beloved actress and raconteur Miriam Margolyes brings her live show Full English to Harrogate Convention Centre, while audiences can also enjoy high-energy stand-up from Jason Byrne, Seann Walsh and Tez Ilyas.

Families can look forward to Olaf Falafel's Stupidest Super Stupid Show!

Running from late September through November, Harrogate Comedy Festival will also welcome comedy legends Paul Merton and Suki Webster, while audiences can also enjoy the sharp observations of Laura Smyth, the quick wit of Ed Patrick and Rachel Mars, the hilarious Scummy Mummies, The 4 Johns and Daniel Kitson.

Harrogate Theatre is incredibly grateful for the support of Harrogate Comedy Festival's primary partner Vet Dentist.