Festival programme launched

The Glasgow comedy festival has unveiled its 2010 line-up, featuring a raft of visiting American comedians.

Acclaimed stand-up Bill Burr, pictured. will make his Scottish debut in the programme, which also includes shows from Todd Barry, Marc Maron and Stephen Lynch.

Europe’s largest festival dedicated entirely to comedy is now in its eighth year and features 360 shows in 42 venues across 18 dates, starting on March 11.

Big home-grown names appearing  include Jimmy Carr, Frankie Boyle, Dara Ó Briain, Paul Merton, Jerry Sadowitz, Lee Mack, Jim Jeffries and Stewart Lee.

Almost 109,000 tickets will be available throughout the event – 5,000 more than in 2009.

Festival organiser Tommy Sheppard said:  ‘Every year we set the bar higher – and every year we better the year before.

‘We are delighted to announce yet again an increase in capacity – offering more laughs to the people of Glasgow and giving those not fortunate enough to live in the city even more reason to visit in March.

‘We’ve a breadth of programming to marvel at – from family friendly household names to the taboo-busting wild boys of contemporary stand-up.’

Glasgow city council leader Steven Purcell said: ‘Glasgow people are famed for their natural wit. We’re also well known for our ability to host successful international events so it’s no surprise that Glasgow is home to one of the best comedy festivals in the world.’

Rob Calder, marketing manager for sponsors Magners, added: ‘The line-up for this year's festival programme looks excellent and will give audiences the chance to see some of the best comedy performers around.  Festivals like this also help to provide a platform for up and coming comedians to showcase their talent to new audiences - which is vital to the future success of these events.’

For the full line-up of the Magners Glasgow International Comedy Festival, visit glasgowcomedyfestival.com

Published: 21 Jan 2010