The inaugural Swindon Old Town Comedy Festival featured 22 performances across six venues, bringing nationally recognised comedians and local acts together in what organisers described as a successful first year.
The festival launched at the Old Town Gardens Bowl, where more than 400 people attended a headline performance by comedian Sara Pascoe.
During the opening weekend, audiences also enjoyed a Comedy and Cocktails event at Mams Gallery, curated by local comedian Abbie Hope.
Between Sunday 8 June and Saturday 14 June, venues including The Victoria, The Pulpit and The Hop hosted Fringe-style shows and Edinburgh Festival previews.
Performers appearing during the week included Abi Clarke, Hannah Byczkowski, Greg Winfield and Sandro Ford.
A themed performance by Ivo Graham, one of Swindon’s best-known comedy exports, was among the festival’s highlights.
The event was organised by Swindon Old Town Comedy Club, which was founded in 2022 by local comedian Sam Michael.
Sam Michael, founder of Swindon Old Town Comedy Club, 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.”
Organisers have confirmed the festival will return in early June next year, with further details expected to be announced in the coming months.
Swindon Old Town Comedy Club will continue hosting regular events at The Hop Inn and Swindon Christ Church Community Centre throughout the year.
