Absurdly hilarious women from the international comedy scene are coming to your doorstep as Manchester welcomes the fifth annual Women in Comedy Festival.
More than 50 events are to be held from Thursday October 19-Sunday 29 across seven different venues.
This year’s line-up of women will be diving into various major issues in solo performances, each of which explores their topic in their own witty way and with their unique twist on comedy.
An unfunded festival counting on the generosity of everyone who takes part, Bolton-born actor Maxine Peake spoke of her pride to be supporting as a patron.
“A festival filled with laughter combined with feminist principles taking place in the North … what’s not to support!” she said.
Book now for @womenincomedyuk launch! MC @sophiewillan W@thetwerkinggirl Sameera Zehra, Toots & Leigh & @BarbaraNice https://t.co/wq36252s3h pic.twitter.com/KVAo3OHWxI
— Frog and Bucket MCR (@frogandbucket) October 3, 2017
The festival was founded by Dulcet Sounds’ Hazel O’Keefe’s all-women comedy night, Laughing Cows’ in 2013 where the line-ups featured all those who identify as women.
Laughing Cows was created in 1998 in response to a sexist comment made by a male comedy promotor, saying he wouldn’t risk having more than one woman on the bill of his club.
O’Keefe decided she wasn’t having any of that and Women in Comedy was born.
The 2017 festival program includes the following:
Glitter Room, showcasing at The Lowry with Katherine Ryan, a common panel show star.
What Would Beyonce Do!? at the Frog and Bucket Comedy Club with Luisa Omielan performing two solo shows.
How Not To Steal A Llama with Sameena Zehra who will be delving into the concept of freedom of movement.
Chicken Soup Crusader with Daphna Baram who will be putting on the act of a Middle Eastern Mary Poppins out to save us from Trump and Brexit.
The festival has affiliated with the Funny Women Awards and the competition will be running throughout the 10 days.
Just a week to go. Got your tix yet? https://t.co/um1VFraxER #canalst #comedy pic.twitter.com/8lY0p2775H
— Canal Street (@canalstmancs) October 12, 2017
Other acts include up and coming comedians, talks, improves and competitions.
The opening event takes place on Thursday 19th with sets from Ava Vidal, Mrs Barbara Nice and Sophie Willan.
Image courtesy of Manchester Comedy via Twitter, with thanks.
