Ria Lina has an extraordinary arsenal to draw upon. A BSc in Experimental Pathology, an MSc in Forensic Science, a PhD in Virology, parents from the Philippines and Germany, an autism diagnosis later in life, and a shared flat with her ex-husband – each piece of her life feeds into the razor-sharp humour she brings to the stage. It is this combination of intellect, cultural insight and lived experience that makes Lina a truly distinctive voice in British comedy.
The comedy sensation has appeared on Mock The Week, Celebrity Pointless and numerous other television moments, but it was her 2024 debut tour ‘RiaWakening’ that really made waves. Making The Telegraph’s ‘Top Ten Best Stand-up Shows of 2024’, the show showcased the energetic, abrasive and open style Lina has been perfecting over two decades. Where previous shows often tackled parenthood or identity, her most recent work reflects on what it means to be an individual today, navigating life in modern British society with wit, curiosity, and unflinching honesty.
A narrative-driven comic, Lina excels at balancing anecdotal storytelling with a liberated willingness to veer gleefully from her meticulously honed script. There is an unmistakable joy in watching her leap into the unknown before returning to the guaranteed delight of her routines. Her performances are never entirely safe, but always delivered with warmth and affection. Lina is a sharp observer who riles up the room, tackling taboos and pushing boundaries just enough to confront the uncomfortable with humour and grace.
With routines that segue from the inevitability of menopause to the collapsing geopolitical climate, this rollercoaster show embraces everything that makes Ria Lina such a unique, engaging performer. From Filipino parenting techniques to progesterone, hormones, and the world we inhabit, ‘Riabellion’ focuses on change, both personal and global. Dense, nuanced and packed with detail, Lina shines as a performer, consistently delivering shows as colourful as her trademark hair.
Much like her previous tour, ‘Riabellion’ garnered exceptional reviews at The Fringe, exploring rebellion and individuality. Parenthood, racism, culture and society are all in the firing line – but expect them delivered with the giddy whimsy, spontaneity and warmth that Lina is known for.
Coming to Gala Durham on Thursday 12th and Friday 13th February, and The Stand on Saturday 21st February, grab a ticket and join the ‘Riabellion’ for an evening of intellect, chaos and unapologetic comedy.
Tickets, priced at £19.00 in advance, are available at thestand.co.uk and galadurham.co.uk.
