This month, the Barnard Castle Comedy Club, Funny Way To Be, presents a brilliant series of Edinburgh Fringe previews, offering comedy fans the chance to experience brand-new shows from some of the UK’s top comedians – without leaving Teesdale.
On Saturday 19th July, the renowned and hilarious MZA Edinburgh Fringe Comedy Sneak Peeks returns to Barnard Castle for a second year. Featuring top Scottish-based acts Craig Hill and Connor Burns, this double bill promises an uproarious night of off-the-cuff, adrenaline-fuelled stand-up. Both performers are regular Fringe favourites, and last year’s show was a sell-out success in Barnard Castle.
Then on Saturday 26th July, just before the Edinburgh Festival kicks off, Funny Way To Be presents a marathon evening of four full-length preview shows at The Witham, starting at 5.00pm.
The line-up is packed with award-winning and acclaimed talent. Opening the night is Eric Rushton, winner of the Leicester Mercury Comedian of the Year and recipient of the 2023 Channel 4 Sean Lock Comedy Award. Following him is Sooz Kempner, a cult favourite known for her role as Doom in Doctor Who’s Doom’s Day. Sooz’s unique mix of character comedy and pop culture parody is always a crowd-pleaser.
At 8.00pm, Marjolein Robertson takes to the stage. Having sold out both her 2023 and 2024 Fringe runs and earning a nomination for NextUp’s Biggest Award in Comedy, she brings her sharp wit and warm storytelling to Barnard Castle. The evening closes with local legend Gavin Webster, one of the North East’s most respected stand-ups. His razor-sharp writing and unmistakable delivery ensure a rousing end to a stellar comedy showcase.
Tickets for Saturday 26th July’s shows are available individually at £9 each, or audiences can opt for a discounted Day Pass – £25 for Early Bird and £30 full price – to enjoy all four hours of comedy.
Speaking about the July programme, Funny Way To Be promoter Peter Dixon said: “These summer shows give local audiences the unique chance to see cutting-edge comedy at a fraction of the cost of going to Edinburgh. We’ve worked hard to bring some of the Fringe’s most exciting acts to Barnard Castle, and the result is a brilliant run of comedy previews right on our doorstep.”
For further information and tickets, head to funnywaytobe.com.
