Stand-up comedy night to celebrate Portsmouth’s centenary year

The Noise Next Door, Joe Wells, Ola Labib, Nathan Eagle and Duncan Adam all line up.

Spokeswoman Kelly Haswell said: “Hosted by home-grown, award-winning comedian, James Alderson of Stitches Comedy Club, a good night is guaranteed with a stellar line-up of comic talent.

“Opening the evening will be Duncan Adam who has been making waves on the south-coast comedy circuit for a number of years. A previous semi-finalist of South Coast Comedian of the Year, Duncan is known for his sharp writing and engaging anecdotes. From life isolated in the Scottish countryside to lighter topics like teaching children about death, Duncan injects all his routines with a brilliantly dry wit that audiences love.

“Next up is the engaging storyteller and previous winner of Spinnaker Tower Gong Show and Portsmouth Comedian of the Year, Nathan Eagle. Giving the audience a glimpse of his life growing up as a working class boy and his work as a care home nurse, he will even show off his surprisingly gymnastic party trick!

“Another Portsmouth-born and bred pioneer, and one of the fastest rising names in British comedy, taking to the stage will be Ola Labib. Best known for her infectious charm, edgy comedy and wry humour, her engaging stories are inspired by both her strict Islamic and traditional African upbringing. Named in 2022 by ITalkTelly as one of The Top 22 TV stars to keep an eye on, Ola has since supported Mo Gilligan at the O2 Arena and has an impressive list of TV credits including World’s Most Dangerous Roads (Dave). Her first scripted project with Channel 4, The Pharmacy, was released last year to critical acclaim and viral success.

“Joe Wells, who made his name as a political comedian with his fringe shows including Night of the Living Tories and 10 Things I Hate About UKIP, has more recently found success with more personal material about mental health and being autistic. A favourite amongst other comedians, he has supported Frankie Boyle, Alexei Sayle and Stephen K Amos, Joe went viral in 2020 with his 'Joe Wells on having a non-autistic brother' clip gaining over 4.5 million views.

“Headlining the evening is the UK’s premier improv comedy troupe and stand-out comedy act of their generation, The Noise Next Door. Twelve-time sell-out veterans of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and one of the country’s most sought-after comedy club headliners, The Noise Next Door leave audiences everywhere in awe of their lightning-quick wit and totally original comedic talents.

“Taking audience suggestions, the cheeky and charming quartet, transform them into fantastically funny scenes and songs in the blink of an eye with a perfect blend of ludicrous characters, witty one-liners, epic stories, and explosive physicality.”

The Portsmouth 100 Comedy Night presented by The Guildhall Trust, and supported by Portsmouth City Council, will take place in the Guildhall Squared Festival Tent as part of a week-long programme of events, activities and workshops that celebrate Portsmouth’s centenary year of city status. Tickets for The Portsmouth 100 Comedy Night, priced at £10, and more details of the Guildhall Squared festival programme are available at www.portsmouthguildhall.org.uk.