New Forest Comedy Festival

About the event

The New Forest Comedy Festival launches in 2023 to showcase the very best in UK comedy and nurture comedy throughout the New Forest.

With a huge selection of acts ranging from stand-up comedy, improv to sketch shows, special appearances, workshops and exhibitions, there’s literally something for everyone at this festival. The festival also includes open mic events, tour nights from some the UK’s best known acts, interactive workshops and an array of activities for all ages to enjoy. Join in with laughter in the woods at the various venues that join hands to form the New Forest Comedy Festival!

Why?

Culture in Common is joining partners to present the comedy festival in response to conversations with communities, which revealed an appetite for more comedy events across the New Forest, and in memory of the legendary Tommy Cooper who went to school in the New Forest.

What’s on?

Highlights include

• The New Forest leg of Leicester Square Theatre’s New Comedian of the Year competition
• Top stand-ups including Jen Brister, Ivo Graham and Fatiha El-Ghorri.
• A tribute show and touring exhibition dedicated to New Forest comedy legend Tommy Cooper.
• Try you hand at stand-up with courses from Above Your Nerve.

Check out the dedicated New Forest Comedy Festival website for full event listings.

Who’s involved?

It has been developed in conjunction with Leicester Square Theatre and New Forest partners:

• Attic Comedy Club
• Forest Forge Theatre
• Hampshire Cultural Trust
• Hanger Farm Arts Centre
• Vibrant Forest Brewery

Enjoy laughter in the woods – explore all the events to find something for you.