Glasgow International Comedy Festival unveils full programme with Frank Skinner, Maisie Adam and more heading to Glasgow this spring
Frank Skinner, Caroline Rhea, Maisie Adam and more taking part celebrating Glasgow as the funniest city in the world!
Article Source: Glasgow International Comedy Festival
Last Updated: 10 January 2024 12:30
Glasgow International Comedy Festival (GICF) has today revealed its full 2024 programme with over 500 events in 45 venues as the festival celebrates Glasgow as the funniest city in the world for 19 days of comedy, for one of its biggest years yet.
Taking place from 13th - 31st March 2024, GICF will welcome international comedians, rising Scottish talent and the very best of live comedy with the programme’s latest announcements including Frank Skinner, Caroline Rhea, Maisie Adam, Leslie Liao, Fesshole, All Killa No Filla, Kieran Hodgson, and more. They join a line-up which includes hometown heroes Susie McCabe, Frankie Boyle, Elaine C Smith, Mark Nelson, Some Laugh Live and Old Firm Facts Live, as well as UK stars Ed Gamble, Fiona Allen, Fascinating Aïda, Stewart Lee, Luisa Omielan, Sikisia, Sam Campbell and many more.
2024 will mark GICF’s 21st birthday with the festival bringing world class comedy to Glasgow through traditional stand-up, live podcasts, musicals, character comedy, storytelling, clowning, improv, theatre and even comedy wrestling.
All Killa No Filla (Kiri Pritchard-McLean and Rachel Fairburn) said: “We can’t wait to bring All Killa No Filla: Live! to all you Glaswegian Legends. It’s been ten years since we started the podcast, and we can safely say nothing beats getting decked up in sequins to chat about heinous crimes in a beautiful theatre full of our brilliant listeners.”
Elaine C Smith said: “I’m delighted to be back at the King’s Theatre which feels like my second home after the last few weeks in Panto there! But this time I’m returning with my new show ‘65’. I’m delighted to be part of the Glasgow International Comedy Festival which has become a huge part of Glasgow’s major events calendar. This city and its people know how to laugh and to make each other laugh, so I’m delighted to be a part of what promises to be a great time for Glasgow.”
Frank Skinner said: “I'm very excited to bring my show, 30 Years of Dirt, to Glasgow. It's a fabulous mix of smart, filthy and hilarious. And so is my show.”
Kieran Hodgson said: “Glasgow has been kind enough to let me make a home here, and I can't wait to repay the hospitality by making an absolute bampot of myself in one of its most prestigious venues. 'Big In Scotland' is a love letter to this great city, and finally answers the question of what it means to be Scottish when you are in no way Scottish. Plus there's a nice jacket I get to wear.”
Some Laugh Live said: “We’re buzzing to be doing our biggest live show to date at the Pavilion. Our previous shows have always been chaotically brilliant and we can’t wait to bring Some Laugh and some cracking guests to such an iconic venue.”
Susie McCabe said: “I'm absolutely delighted to be back in Glasgow with another solo show in the stunning King's Theatre. The perfect room and the perfect audience for another night of nonsense and laughs!”
GICF highlights include Scottish favourite and recent ‘Live at the Apollo’ star Susie McCabe’s brand new show ‘The Merchant of Menace’; Off Menu podcast host and Taskmaster champion Ed Gamble; solo shows from Two Doors Down stars Kieran Hodgson and Elaine C Smith; Chris Forbes tells the tale of his almost superstar status as a basketballer; Aunt Hilda herself Caroline Rhea will enchant audiences; Frank Skinner brings the critically acclaimed ‘30 Years of Dirt’ to Glasgow following a total sell-out at Edinburgh Fringe; Mark Nelson’s biggest Scottish show yet; solo shows for TikTok stars Zara Gladman and James Gardner; Some Laugh Live’s biggest live show yet featuring some very special guests; the internet’s naughtiest, funniest and cringiest confessions will be revealed at Glasgow’s first ever Fesshole live; and even a show dedicated to one of Scotland’s most vital exports with Scott Agnew’s Square Sausage Show celebrating the life, times and lore of the Lorne…
Plus, 2024 will see the festival’s first ever comedy wrestling show with Insane Championship Wrestling; family fun at Kids Comedy Club; a special live recording of Jay Lafferty’s critically acclaimed show Bahookie; Taskmaster champion Sam Campbell; Smack the Pony’s very own Fiona Allen; a hometown show for Frankie Boyle’s UK tour; musical comedy with songstresses Fascinating Aïda; LA star on the rise Lesley Liao; live shows from some of the UK’s most popular podcasts including Kiri Pritchard-McLean and Rachel Fairburn’s All Killa No Filla, Old Firm Facts Live; and so much more.
Festival Director Krista MacDonald said: “We’re excited to reveal Glasgow International Comedy Festival’s biggest programme yet with 500 shows taking over the city this spring, bringing the very best of Scottish, UK and international comedy to the city’s doorsteps. The festival firmly believes that Glasgow is the funniest city in the world and we’re thrilled to showcase that with a brilliant mix of headline names and rising stars performing across our venues in March.
“The festival strives to make sure comedy is open to anyone and everyone which is why this year we've introduced a completely free 'Introduction to Comedy' course for women and marginalised genders. Led by the hilarious and talented Viv Gee, the 6-week course will serve as a basic introduction to stand-up, aiming to boost confidence and encourage a more diverse new generation of talent to enter the wonderful world of comedy.
“Comedy is such an integral part of Glasgow’s DNA - from conversations with strangers on a night out to some of the world’s greatest comedians, comedy plays a vital role in our city’s cultural identity. Glasgow International Comedy Festival allows us to celebrate and shine a light on that whilst nurturing the next generation of talent and enjoying sets from beloved comedians. We’re looking forward to welcoming fans to iconic venues in the city’s East End, West End and everywhere in between. We’ll see you at a show!”
Glasgow Life Chair, Bailie Annette Christie, said: “As a much-anticipated annual highlight of our culturally rich events calendar, Glasgow International Comedy Festival celebrates the city’s famous appreciation of humour. The event is hugely popular with a broad range of audiences, and attracts the very best in established and emerging talent in comedy – and that’s testament not only to Glasgow’s reputation as a major player on the worldwide comedy stage but also its international renown as a great destination for entertainment.
“The programme for GICF’s special 21st birthday boasts a dynamic line-up spanning an eclectic variety of superb, truly inventive comedy so our city venues are looking forward to hosting audiences from all over Glasgow and much further afield for what promises to be a fantastic series of shows in March.”
From hometown heroes to international comedy stars, Glasgow International Comedy Festival has something for everyone from family-friendly shows to late-night laughs. The closing Comedy Gala on Saturday 30th March will also reveal the winner of the festival’s only official award: the Sir Billy Connolly Spirit of Glasgow Award. The Big Yin himself will choose the ultimate winner, after an independent panel of judges choose a shortlist from all applications. Any individual, show, group or collective registered with the 2024 festival are eligible to submit - applications close at 5pm on 15th January.
New for 2024, GICF will also host a free ‘Introduction to Comedy’ course for women and marginalised genders in the lead up to the festival, with the aim of ensuring comedy in Glasgow is open to everyone. The 6 week complimentary course will be hosted by comedian Viv Gee, helping participants navigate the ins and outs of comedy, boost their confidence and introduce the basics of stand-up and performance. Workshops will take place at August House, culminating in a grand finale spot on a mixed bill show during the festival. Applications close 12pm, 18th January - apply now via www.glasgowcomedyfestival.com.
Over 45 venues will host Glasgow International Comedy Festival events with shows in Blackfriars, Drygate, King’s Theatre, The Garage, The Glad Cafe, Glasgow Film Theatre, Glasgow Science Centre, The Glee Club, McChuills, O2 Academy, Oran Mor, Saint Luke’s and the Winged Ox, Sloans, The Stand Comedy Club, Van Winkle West End, August House and more.
2024 festival tickets are on sale atwww.glasgowcomedyfestival.com
Sponsored Links
Latest Glasgow News
Silverburn champions future leaders through Braveheart Challenge
Over 80 pupils from St Paul's High School in Pollok took part in the national enterprise programme.
READ MORE
Scottish Golf events go LIVE for 2025
Top amateurs and handicap golfers can now sign up for one or more of Scottish Golf's 33 championships in a packed 2025 schedule.
READ MORE
Live Music Now Scotland announces unparalleled new award
Live Music Now Scotland is delighted to announce a funding award of £150,000 from Elizabeth Lornie's Charitable Trust.
READ MORE
Pavilion Festival returns to Ayr Beach with Saturday lineup curated by Ewan McVicar
Pavilion Festival Presents: Ewan McVicar B2B Ben Hemsley, special guest Annie Mac, along with DJ Seinfeld, Sally C, Robert Hood (Floorplan) and more on Saturday 3rd May!
READ MORE
BBC Debate Night returns for 2025
BBC Scotland's topical TV programme Debate Night returns this month and they are searching for people to be part of the big studio audience.
READ MORE
Looking For Laughs: The dating show with a difference
Are you tired of the same old dating shows? Ready for something new, fresh, and LOL funny? Look no further than Looking for Laughs, the dating show that's turning the concept upside down!
READ MORE
First Look: Mar Hall to reopen in Spring 2025
Spearheaded by independent Glasgow-based design studio, Graven, the renovation will see a complete transformation and expansion of one of Scotland’s most established heritage hotels.
READ MORE
Strictly professional Janette Manrara to make stage debut as Roxie Hart in Chicago The Musical at the Kings Theatre Glasgow
The King's Theatre are delighted to announce that former Strictly Come Dancing professional Janette Manrara will join the UK tour of CHICAGO as Roxie Hart, making her musical theatre debut!
READ MORE
Celebrate Chinese New Year with a roster of blockbusters at Vue venues in Scotland
Vue venues across Scotland will be showcasing a mixture of the latest big screen blockbusters from China as well as an anniversary screening of Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.
READ MORE
Dine out for under a tenner as Platform announces its new lunchtime offering
Platform announces its new lunchtime offering to help beat those January Blues without breaking the bank.
READ MORE
Glasgow student becomes first ever Scottish voice to feature on Ring video doorbells
A woman from Glasgow has become the first ever Scottish voice to be heard on Ring Video Doorbells, following a nationwide casting search by the smart home security company.
READ MORE
Top attractions reward local residents with special offers to say thank you and celebrate Glasgow 850
Glasgow Attractions have launched a series of special offers to celebrate Glasgow 850 and to thank residents for making the city a great place to visit!
READ MORE
Dobbies free February workshops
Dobbies Garden Centres’ popular Little Seedlings Club and Grow How workshops return for February, inviting gardeners and families to get hands-on at these free sessions.
READ MORE
Casting announced for Scottish premiere of Tina
The King's Theatre Glasgow are delighted to announce the full cast for the Scottish premiere of hit production Tina - The Tina Turner Musical, as part of its first ever UK and Ireland tour.
READ MORE
Full programme announced for Glasgow Film Festival 2025
Glasgow Film Festival 2025 has announced the full programme for its 21st edition. Scotland's largest annual celebration of cinema will showcase 92 World, UK and Scottish premieres from 39 countries.
READ MORE
Glasgow 850 kicks off a year of festivities with programme launch
Glasgow City Council has officially launched its Glasgow 850 programme for 2025, a spectacular year-long celebration marking 850 years since the city gained Burgh status!
READ MORE
Karen Hauer & Gorka Marquez are back with their biggest ever tour for 2025!
Strictly Come Dancing professionals Karen Hauer and Gorka Marquez are thrilled to bring their all-new show SPEAKEASY to Glasgow Royal Concert Hall next month!
READ MORE
Social run club marks 1st Anniversary with complimentary hosted run and coffee morning
Glasgow's leading running club, Solemates, is marking its first anniversary in style by teaming up with Granary Quay to host a unique social run club and coffee morning.
READ MORE
New opening: The Noble Public House is set to launch in Glasgow city centre
The Noble is set to open next month in Glasgow's city centre, re-imagining the classic British pub and taking an elevated yet unpretentious approach to hospitality.
READ MORE
WestFest is back for its third annual festival this June
After a successful 2024 festival, comprising over 130 events and reaching total audience numbers of over 110,000, the third annual WestFest will take place this year from 1st to 29th June.
READ MORE
Pawsome New Year Resolutions remove over 39 million pieces of litter
Dog owners making an environmental New Year Resolution have boosted the ranks of the “PAWS ON PLASTIC’ charity to 27,000.
READ MORE
Celtic Connections banishes winter blues as it begins in Glasgow
Celtic Connections kicks off today with this year's edition featuring renowned artists, secret sets, and unique collaborations, showcasing traditional, folk, world, and roots music!
READ MORE
IRN BRU team up with YO! to offer haggis sushi to reimagine Burns Supper in Glasgow
IRN-BRU and YO! are reimagining Burns Suppers, teaming up to fuse sushi with haggis to help Glaswegians celebrate Scotland's National Day with a 2025 twist.
READ MORE
Silverburn breaks fundraising record for Glasgow Childrens Hospital Charity
Silverburn, has announced a record-breaking amount has been raised in 2024 in support of its long-standing charity partner, Glasgow Children's Hospital Charity.
READ MORE
Pigeon Shrine FrightFest announces 2025 Glasgow Film Festival line up
FrightFest, the UK's top horror film festival, returns to Glasgow Film Festival for its 20th year. Expect terrifying world premieres, short films and more all at the iconic Glasgow Film Theatre!
READ MORE
Border Caravans Announced as Headline Sponsor of the Scottish Caravan, Motorhome and Holiday Home Show
The Scottish Caravan, Motorhome and Holiday Home Show is delighted to announce Border Caravans as the new headline sponsor for this year's event.
READ MORE
Hopeful parents across Glasgow are invited to adoption event
Kibble Adoption, the newly launched service from the children's care charity, is inviting people to join them for an event that highlights the benefits of adoption for both parents and children.
READ MORE
David Hayman leads fresh new production of Death Of A Salesman at The Pavilion Theatre
One of the greatest plays of the twentieth century, Arthur Miller's Death of a Salesman explodes onto the stage in this fresh new production led by acclaimed actor David Hayman.
READ MORE
Tron Theatre presents a modern take on A View From The Bridge
Tron Theatre Company is delighted to be presenting the award-winning play A View From The Bridge written by American playwright Arthur Miller.
READ MORE
World Gaelic Week unveils largest programme to date
Seachdain na Gàidhlig has unveiled details of its most diverse, ambitious and largest programme to date, bringing together speakers, learners and enthusiasts from across Scotland and beyond.
READ MORESponsored Links
Sponsored Links