Swindon’s first-ever independent comedy festival has been hailed a major success.
It brought together more than 1,000 comedy fans and performers across 22 shows in nine days, at six venues throughout the town.
The inaugural Swindon Old Town Comedy Festival launched with a spectacular outdoor event at the Old Town Gardens Bowl, attended by more than 400 people and headlined by acclaimed comedian Sara Pascoe.
The opening weekend also featured a unique Comedy and Cocktails evening at Mams Gallery, curated by local comedian Abbie Hope.
The festival programme then continued with daily Fringe performances from 8-14 June, showcasing a mix of established and emerging comedy talent.
The festival was organised by Swindon Old Town Comedy Club, which was founded in 2022 by local comedian Sam Michael.
Sam said: "It was a pleasure to bring the first independent comedy festival to Swindon and, for a first festival, I feel it went really well. I’d certainly love to do it again next year.
"What I’m most proud of is the balance we struck between comedy star power and local talent. \
"Yes, we welcomed performers such as Sara Pascoe, Michael Akadiri and Ivo Graham, alongside stars from Last One Laughing, Live at the Apollo and Taskmaster, as well as online comedy sensations including Sandro Ford and Abi Clarke.
"But we also showcased fantastic local acts such as Tam Vanum, Levi Danniel Childs, Bella Humphries and Abbie Hope, all of whom represent the exciting comedy talent emerging from Swindon.
"I’m delighted that we were able to celebrate both established names and rising local performers."
Audiences enjoyed Edinburgh Fringe preview shows from comedians including Abi Clarke, Hannah Byczkowski, Greg Winfield and Sandro Ford at venues including The Victoria, The Pulpit and The Hop. Festival-goers were also treated to a special locally themed performance from Ivo Graham, widely regarded as one of Swindon’s most successful comedy exports.
Following the success of its debut year, the Swindon Old Town Comedy Festival is set to return, with dates to be announced.
In the meantime, Swindon Old Town Comedy Club will continue to host regular comedy nights at The Hop Inn and Swindon Christ Church Community Centre, providing audiences with year-round opportunities to enjoy live comedy in the town.
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