Where Paul Hilliard  became our first official Hotshot of 2026

Here are extracts from all the comedians who performed at the Chortle Hotshots Bristol showcase last week.

All are planning to bring their debut show to the Edinburgh Fringe this summer.

Following the gig at  The Gaffe comedy club in Bristol, Paul Hilleard became our first official Hotshot, receiving some financial help with his show – which will be called Grog and will be on at Monkey Barrel during the Fringe.

Our next showcase  takes place at Top Secret Comedy Club in Covent Garden, Central London on Wednesday (tickets). 

Winner: Paul Hilliard 

Gaz Lawrence

Lily Maryon as Princess Sparkles

Sam Hickman 

Raj Poojara

Jonas Jamarik

Gurpreet Singh Dhesi

Published: 1 Mar 2026