With Dara O Briain, Dylan Moran, Emmanuel Sonubi and Catherine Bohart

Bolton’s Octagon Theatre has announced the town’s first comedy festival.

More than 30 comedians will perform at the venue from July 12 to 14, including Dara O Briain, Dylan Moran, Emmanuel Sonubi and Catherine Bohart.

The programme will include daily headline performances in the Octagon’s main theatre, a series of work-in-progress shows in the intimate studio space and live podcast recordings with special guests. 

Venue chief executive Roddy Gauld said: ‘Bolton has a reputation for funny people! With names such as Peter Kay, Diane Morgan, Sophie Willan, Paddy McGuinness, Stu Francis, Hylda Baker and so many more hailing from our town.

‘We felt it was time that Bolton had its own comedy festival, to celebrate our famous sense of humour and comedy heritage.

‘The response we had for our Peter Kay shows at the Octagon last year was phenomenal and audiences loved seeing a comedy genius up-close - the atmosphere felt electric! So, this new comedy festival is great opportunity to come together and enjoy fresh new material from some of the biggest names in stand-up, as well as chance to discover someone new.’

Kay played the Octagon three times last December - his first hometown gigs in two decades – raising £80,000 for the venue.

News of the comedy festival comes after Bolton was named as Greater Manchester’s Town of Culture for 2024.. Tickets are on sale now.

Published: 31 Mar 2024