The comedy week ahead

Sunday June 23

RADIO: Down The Line, Radio 4's spoof phone-in programme returns for a one-off special looking back at last year's Olympics. Starring, as always, Rhys Thomas as the hapless host Gary Bellamy, with Paul Whitehouse, Charlie Higson, Simon Day, Lucy Montgomery, Felix Dexter as the callers. Radio 4, 7.15pm

Monday June 24

RADIO: Brian Cox and Robin Ince return for a new series of their witty science show The Infinite Money Cage – starting with a light-hearted look at death. Among the guests are Katy Brand. Radio 4, 4.30pm DVD: The first two series of quirky and acclaimed US sketch show Portlandia are released on DVD today. Buy LIVE IN LONDON: Stewart Lee begins a week-long run of late-night work-in progress gigs at the Soho Theatre.

Tuesday June 25

LIVE IN LONDON: The charming Boy With Tape On His Face begins an 18-night run of his acclaimed silent comedy show at the Udderbelly. Audience participation at its most delightful... RADIO: Before it transfers to BBC One, Jason Byrne’s family comedy Father Figure gets a repeat run. Originally made for Radio 2, it co-stars Sharon Horgan as his wife Chloe with Pauline McLynn and Peter Gowen as Jason’s parents. Radio 4 Extra, 10.30pm

Wednesday June 26

LIVE IN LONDON: The Alternative Comedy Memorial Society continue their groundbreaking, bizarre but fun fun work at The Harrison bar with Ben Target, Bridget Christie, Colin Hoult, Holly Walsh, Isy Suttie, Nathaniel Metcalfe, Thom Tuck, Tom Bell and John-Like Roberts.

Thursday June 27

BOOK: Viv Groskop always wanted to be a stand-up so in what may have been a midlife crisis she decided to embark on 100 gigs in 100 nights to see if she was cut out for it. I Laughed, I Cried: How One Woman Took on Stand-Up and (Almost) Ruined Her Life is her account of those escapades on the open mic circuit. Buy

Saturday June 29

LIVE IN LONDON: Bowie Fest. Another extravaganza from those fine folke at Weirdo’s Comedy. The day features a mix of comedy and theatre all inspired by the Thin White Duke (and other David Bowie Personas) ending with a tribute show in the evening. Nick Helm, Holly Burn and Ben Target are among those taking part at the Lion, in Kings Cross.

Published: 23 Jun 2013