Twice as big as before

Exeter Comedy Festival is back  for a second year with twice as many shows.

A total of 60 events will take place from June 5 to 8 featuring the likes of Bridget Christie (pictured_, Tim Key, Reginald D Hunter, Mark Watson and Josie Long.

The event is  organised by former Edinburgh Comedy Award winner Will Adamsdale and nominee Spencer Jones alongside Georgia Thomas, Charlotte Evans and David Lockwood.

Adamsdale said: ‘Spencer and I and those others involved  have all enjoyed different festival atmospheres and vibes, especially that very organic, free and creative thing you can get in the early days of festivals. Certainly last year seemed to have something of that chaotic charm that comes from seeing gigs in strange spaces close together. 

‘We'd just like to keep doing it and see where it goes, to stay curious and try to put on a real variety of work from different and under-represented voices that different audiences and demographics will hopefully like. 

‘But also we just want to put on some of the brilliant work we like and hope others will too. If we manage at least some of all that then hopefully the atmosphere / vibe will look after itself! 

Thomas added: ‘The comedy industry is full of circuits and circles—some overlap, some don’t. For comedians and audiences in Exeter, London and Edinburgh can feel so far away. This festival bridges that gap. 

‘It connects the circuits and draws a bold circle around Exeter as a hub for great comedy. The South West is brimming with talent, and local audiences already know it—this festival gives those acts the spotlight they deserve. 

‘But it’s also about bringing in exciting new voices from London and some of the bigger names, so people here don’t have to travel miles to stay in the comedy loop. Exeter loves comedy, and this festival’s here to celebrate that.’

Published: 15 May 2025