Manchester unveils festival line-up

Barry Cryer, Daniel Kitson (pictured) and Charlie Chuck are among the comics lined up for the Manchester Comedy Festival later this month.

The 87 comedians performing at the annual event also include former Bonzo Dog Doo-Dah Band member Neil Innes, freeform Scottish stand-up Phil Kay and Perrier nominee Omid Djalili.

The event takes place at several comedy venues across the city from October 24 to November 3, and is Britain's third comedy festival to take place this month. The Birmingham festival opens on Friday, and Brighton's launches next Tuesday.

Don Ward, owner of the Comedy Store and director of the Manchester event, said: "Comedy in Manchester is booming and the promoters, venues and comedy-loving public involved in festival just prove it.

"Northern comics in particular are enjoying their well-deserved place in the comedy spotlight and I can't wait to see more talent from this year's festival."

Other highlights of the festival include a display of original cartoons by Tony Husband and Mitch, and the annual new act competition, sponsored by listings magazine City Life.

Click here for listings.

Published: 2 Oct 2002