Comic in Perrier showcase

Dara O'Briain is to appear in Perrier's London season - even though he has never been nominated for the prestigious award.

Organisers ruled that the Irishman's appearances on BBC2's Live Floor Show made him too famous to be considered for this year's accolade. And previous shows failed to make the shortlist.

O'Briain, who won the Chortle award for best headliner this year, will be appearing at Her Majesty's Theatre in a double bill with Rich Hall, who won the 2000 Perrier for his character Otis Lee Crenshaw.

Three more bills will showcase all the nominees, plus best newcomer Gary Le Strange.

The full line-ups for the Pick Of The Fringe season are:

Sunday October 5: Her Majesty's Theatre: Reginald D. Hunter: White Woman, Howard Read & Little Howard. 7.30pm. £5 to £19

Sunday October 12: Her Majesty's Theatre: Dara O'Briain, Rich Hall Without Roy Chubby Brown. 7.30pm. £5 to £19

Sunday October 19: Her Majesty's Theatre: Adam Hills: Cut Loose, Flight of the Conchords: High on Folk 7.30pm. £5 to £19

Sunday October 26: Palace Theatre: Demetri Martin: If I, Gary Le Strange: Polaroid Suitcase. 7.30pm. £5 to £19

Published: 8 Sep 2003