The Line-Up
Our Comedians
Boundary-pushing stand-up from the best comics on the London circuit — sharp, satirical and never the same show twice. Three comics and one hilarious host, every night.
Regulars & Rising Stars
The Wall
Adam Greene
Writes for BBC Radio 4's The News Quiz
Picture a comedian who can turn the mundane art of self-care into comedy gold, who transforms everyday observations into punchlines so sharp they could write themselves onto BBC Radio 4. That's Adam Greene, a multi award-nominated stand-up whose wit has earned him a spot on the writing team for The News Quiz, where his razor-sharp insights help skewer the week's headlines with surgical precision.
A veteran of the circuit since 2016, Adam's rapid ascent saw him reach the finals of the Piccadilly New Act of the Year competition and snag runner-up at Balham New Act—all while developing a reputation for effortlessly relatable humour that keeps audiences hanging on every word. Bruce Dessau, the comedy critic's critic, tagged him as "one to keep tabs on," and Edinburgh Fringe-goers have done exactly that across three consecutive years of sell-out shows, including 2024's Healthy Beast.
When he's not crafting BBC-worthy material, Adam co-hosts The Hero Complex Podcast, dissecting pop culture with fellow comics Hugh Peacocke and Patrick Brusnahan. His style? High-energy improvisation meets sharp observational wit, delivered with the kind of easy-going charm that makes even his edgiest material feel like a chat with your funniest mate. A favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024, Adam brings that perfect blend of intelligence and irreverence that keeps Rum Monkey audiences coming back for more.
Adam Hopkins
Cut his teeth doing stand-up in Mandarin in Shanghai
Some comedians learn the craft in dimly lit basement rooms. Adam Hopkins? He started slinging jokes in Shanghai, performing in Mandarin to crowds who didn't speak his mother tongue—and absolutely smashed it. Originally from Leeds and now terrorising London stages, this is a comic who's headlined across Asia, tackled stages from Tokyo to Guatemala City, and somehow still found time to write for BBC Radio 4, VICE, and The Guardian between flights.
His full comedy special Taipei is proof he knows how to command a room, and his current work-in-progress Sorry, What?—about growing up with a deaf brother—has been tearing the house down at clubs across the capital. A BBC New Comedy Award nominee, Leicester Comedy Festival Circuit Breaker, and 2025 Chortle Hotshot, Adam's also won Reading Indie Comedy Festival's New Comedian of the Year and opened for Kyle Kinane's UK tour. His writing's graced everything from Time Out to SPORTbible, because apparently one creative outlet just isn't enough.
A favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024, Adam brings a laid-back confidence that belies razor-sharp timing. Whether he's dissecting cultural chaos or mining his international misadventures, he delivers relatable wit with a globe-trotter's edge. Catch him before he buggers off to Bangkok again.
Adam Riley
Comedy Store King Gong winner · Chortle One to Watch
Picture a deadpan redhead with the kind of dark wit that makes you laugh before you've even processed what just happened—that's the electrifying energy Adam Riley brings to every stage he graces. This seriously impressive comic (as The Scotsman put it) has been turning heads across the UK circuit since winning the Comedy Store's King Gong in June 2015, a victory that launched him into the comedy stratosphere.
Named Chortle Comedian to Watch in 2017, Adam's deliciously twisted sense of humour earned him a spot at the AAA Stand-up showcase at Edinburgh Fringe 2019, where he's since become a regular fixture with five shows under his belt—including his cult hit "Saxon" and the brilliantly titled "Late-night Comedy in the Afternoon." He's also flexed his writing chops for BBC Radio 4's Newsjack, proving his dark genius works on page as well as stage.
Whether he's dismantling why he'll never be James Bond or sharing cancel-worthy material about his former career at B&Q Cricklewood, Adam's performances at top clubs like the Comedy Store and Up the Creek have cemented his reputation. A favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024, Adam delivers jokes so clever and dark you'll want to steal them for yourself (but please don't).
Ahmed Ibrahim
King Gong winner · Cairo-to-London storyteller
Picture this: a teenager fresh from the bustling streets of Cairo lands in South London, armed with a head full of stories and an innate gift for turning cultural collision into comedy gold. Ahmed Ibrahim doesn't just tell jokes—he weaves entire worlds from the absurdities of navigating two dramatically different cultures, leaving audiences in stitches with his natural, relaxed charm.
This rising star proved he's got serious chops when he conquered the Comedy Store's legendary King Gong competition in October 2021, one of the toughest open mic battles in the UK comedy circuit. Since then, he's been lighting up stages across London at venues like Up The Creek and City Comedy Club, and he's become a favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024. His offbeat delivery and alternative philosophies have a mesmerising quality—audiences find themselves hanging on every word, completely in the palm of his hand.
Ahmed took his debut show "From Cairo to Kent" to Camden Fringe 2023, showcasing his ability to transform the immigrant experience into compelling comedy. Whether he's recounting the peculiarities of growing up in Egypt or dissecting the quirks of British life, his charming storytelling style makes every punchline land with effortless precision.
Ajay Rose
10M+ views · BBC New Comedy Awards finalist
When this 6'1" comic strides onto stage with his gravelly masculine energy and lands those punchlines like a heavyweight, you know you're in for a proper ride. Ajay Rose burst onto the London comedy scene in 2021 and made such an immediate impact that he reached the BBC New Comedy Awards Final after just eleven months—a performance that racked up 5 million views and announced him as one to watch.
Since then, he's been absolutely everywhere: smashing stages at London's top clubs, delivering a TEDx Talk at Aston University, appearing on BBC Three and BBC Sounds with Stacey Dooley, and becoming a finalist in Leicester Square Theatre's New Comedian of the Year 2025. His material—from getting baked in front of Netflix to navigating racial ambiguity—hits with the kind of relatable humour that's earned him over 80,000 Instagram followers and 10 million views across social media.
A favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024, Ajay's also juggling life as a writer (formerly with The Athletic and Complex Networks), podcast host of The Ajay Rose Show, and founder of pop culture site Plugsville. Whether he's performing stand-up, creating viral sketches, or making mockumentaries, this multi-talented force shows no signs of slowing down.
Alex Bertulis-Fernandes
Channel 4 Sean Lock Award finalist · a gag a second
Picture a comedian who can pack more smart, elegantly-crafted gags into five minutes than most manage in an hour—that's the electric energy Alex Bertulis-Fernandes brings to every stage. This neurodivergent, mixed-race powerhouse burst onto the circuit in 2019 and hasn't stopped collecting accolades since. She scooped the British Comedy Guide Pro Talent Award for Performance in 2024 and has been a finalist for the Leicester Mercury Comedian of the Year and the Channel 4 Sean Lock Comedy Award, with double BBC New Comedy Awards nominations under her belt.
But Alex isn't just a stand-up—she's a triple threat who writes for BBC Radio's Dead Ringers, The Now Show, and The News Quiz, and contributed to TV's Piglets. Her feminist artwork went viral in 2018 after a teacher told her to "dial down the feminism" (spoiler: she dialled it up), landing features in TIME, The Guardian, Newsweek, and Dazed. Her solo show May Find Distressing has been captivating audiences across London, earning her a spot on the ISH Edinburgh Comedy Awards Best Joke of the Fringe shortlist. A regular favourite on the Battersea Barge since 2024, Alex delivers fearless, intelligent comedy that's as thought-provoking as it is hilarious.
Alfie Dundas
100M+ views online · BBC New Comedy finalist
Picture a comedian who looks like he should still be asking for a student discount, but sounds like he's already nursing thirty years of existential dread—that's the beautiful contradiction at the heart of Alfie Dundas. This belligerent stand-up has amassed over 100 million views across social media with his razor-sharp takes on family, class, and the general absurdity of being alive in your twenties, making him one of the UK circuit's fastest-rising talents.
A BBC New Comedy Award finalist and Chortle Best Newcomer nominee, Alfie has conquered stages from The Comedy Store to Edinburgh Fringe, where his split-bill Cold Brew Comedy earned four-star reviews and his solo show Untitled proved he's more than ready for the spotlight. He's opened for heavyweights like Seann Walsh and Max Fosh, and released two acclaimed comedy specials including Privileged To Be Here (2026). Whether he's dissecting privilege with self-deprecating wit or turning generational angst into comedy gold, Alfie brings an infectious energy that's made him a favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024. Represented by Curtis Brown, this young gun is only getting started—and we're thrilled to have him aboard.
Andy Fox
King Gong winner · 6'6" of gag-heavy swagger
At a towering 6'6", this lanky force of nature commands the stage with the kind of authentic swagger you can't fake. Growing up on a Maidstone council estate so close to a prison it was practically criminal-adjacent, Andy Fox has turned his working-class roots into comedy gold, delivering a relentlessly fast-paced, gag-heavy set that's as sharp as it is charming.
His rise has been nothing short of meteoric—scooping the Komedia New Comedy Award in 2024, then landing runner-up at Leicester Comedian of the Year 2025, before capping off the year as King Gong winner at The Comedy Store. Chortle couldn't be clearer: "he certainly deserves to be elevated into comedy big time, and soon." With a formidable gag rate and a worldview that's ripe for affectionate mockery, he's mastered the art of turning stereotypes into punchlines, whether he's riffing on his height, Brighton life, or aggressive chavs.
A favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024, Andy's brought his cheeky brilliance to Rum Monkey's legendary Battersea Barge and beyond, proving that Maidstone's finest export isn't just funny—he's the absolute real deal.
Becky Umbers
Kiwi firecracker with a cartoon squeak and killer wit
If you think you've heard every kind of voice in comedy, wait until Becky Umbers hits the mic with a squeak that could rival a kids' cartoon – except this Kiwi firecracker drops observations with all the cheeky wit of someone who absolutely knows what they're doing. This multi-award-winning comedian from New Zealand has taken London by storm, becoming a beloved regular on the UK circuit and a favourite on the Comedy Boat at Rum Monkey since gracing our stages.
Becky's quirky storytelling and razor-sharp observations have earned her serious stripes: Best Debut at the New Zealand International Comedy Festival in 2019, a finalist spot for Hoots Fringe Act of the Year at Edinburgh 2023, and multiple nominations at the NZ Comedy Guild Awards. She's brought the house down on telly too, appearing on 7 Days, The Project, Guy Montgomery's Guy Mont-Spelling Bee, and the 2025 NZ Best Foods Comedy Gala. Her debut hour Put That Cat Back in the Bag wowed Edinburgh Fringe audiences in 2025, and she's been named as a contender for the prestigious 2025 Chortle Hotshot.
Small in stature but enormous in laughs, Becky's unique persona and high-energy confidence make every set an absolute treat. Book your ticket and prepare for side-splitting stories delivered in the most delightfully unexpected voice.
Ben Clover
3x Roast Battle UK Champion · reporter turned roaster
There's something deliciously subversive about a former newspaper reporter who traded deadlines for punchlines—and Ben Clover's done exactly that with devastating effect. This South London native cut his teeth writing for the South London Press before discovering that making people laugh was far more rewarding than making them informed. Now, with over a decade of stand-up under his belt, he's become one of the circuit's most reliably brilliant acts.
As the reigning Roast Battle UK Champion from 2019 to 2021, Ben knows how to land a killer blow with surgical precision. His sharp, observational material has graced stages from Edinburgh to London's finest clubs, including our very own Rum Monkey Comedy Club, where he's been lighting up the Comedy Boat since 2024. His Edinburgh Fringe runs have become the stuff of legend—complete sell-outs in 2021 and 2022 proved audiences can't get enough of his unique perspective.
Beyond the stage, Ben's writing chops have earned him credits on BBC shows and Comedy Central's Roast Battle. Whether he's dissecting the nuances of the word "cheeky" or exploring the contradictions of modern life, this multi-award-winning comedian delivers intelligent comedy with a working-class edge that's as thoughtful as it is hilarious.
Bert Broadbent
King Gong winner · ITV Tipping Point champion
Picture a working-class East-End lad who can make a gym membership sound like an existential crisis and turn his parents' accusations of being "la-di-da" into comedy gold – that's the magic you get with this one. Self-effacing and sharp-witted, Bert Broadbent has been tearing up the London circuit with observational material that dissects class, culture, and masculinity through a brilliantly skewed lens.
He's the sort of comedian who can coin a word for a flatmate that instantly needs to enter the dictionary, and his bit about spotting a tender kiss involves the kind of misdirection that leaves audiences gasping. After absolutely smashing the world-famous King Gong in early 2024, his diary went from empty to rammed overnight. Since then, he's become a favourite on the Comedy Boat, bringing that authentic London energy to Battersea Barge with four brilliant sets that prove exactly why he was selected for Best In Class 2026 at Edinburgh Fringe.
A finalist in So You Think You're Funny? and a BBC New Comedy Awards semi-finalist, Bert's also got a surreal claim to fame: he won ITV's Tipping Point back in 2013. These days, when he's not talking about his dog or the inane hypocrisies of everyday life, he's reminding us all why homegrown talent hits different.
Bilal Rashid
Sell-out Fringe debut · multiple gong-show winner
Picture a comedian who walks on stage with the confidence of someone who's just won multiple Beat the Gong competitions and the mischievous glint of someone who titled their Edinburgh debut "The Pros and Cons of Joining ISIS." That's Bilal Rashid, the Greenwich-based comic who's been tearing up the UK circuit since 2022 with his unapologetically dark material and razor-sharp one-liners. A Beat the Frog World Series finalist and sold-out Edinburgh Fringe performer, Bilal blends savage punchlines with deceptively charming delivery, tackling everything from religion and immigration to the weirdest corners of British culture with fearless satire. Chortle praised him as "a strong and efficient joke writer" with a gag rate that hits like a freight train, while fellow comics know him as the real deal—subversive, hilarious, and consistently brilliant. By day, he's an investment broker specialising in tax-efficient solutions; by night, he's the host of Big Bill's Comedy Night and a favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024, where his killer crowd work and blunt wit have made him unmissable. With 300+ gigs under his belt and comparisons to Jimmy Carr, Frankie Boyle, and Paul Chowdhry, Bilal's comedy is dark, irreverent, and brilliantly silly—definitely not for the easily offended.
Blake AJ
Chortle Hotshot 2025 · BBC New Comedian nominee
There's something brilliantly infectious about a comedian who turns accidentally becoming middle class into comedy gold, and that's exactly what you get with Blake AJ. This dynamic performer brings the kind of good-mood energy that makes every room feel like they're in on the best secret—mixing observational brilliance with a cheeky postmodern twist that's earned him serious recognition on the UK circuit.
A 2020 Hackney Empire New Act of the Year runner-up and Chortle Hotshot Class of 2025 recipient, Blake's journey from teaching English in Vietnam to commanding stages across London has been nothing short of magnetic. Armed with a Film Studies degree and a knack for spinning everyday absurdities into laugh-out-loud moments, he's brought his sharp wit to Hot Water Comedy Club, City Comedy Club, and made his Edinburgh Fringe debut back in 2019 with the wonderfully titled "Joke Boys."
Blake's become a firm favourite on the Comedy Boat since joining the Rum Monkey family, delivering sets packed with warmth, wit, and that rare ability to make you think while you're crying with laughter. Whether he's dissecting generational property anxiety or celebrating his linguistic mixed-race status, this is comedy with heart, smarts, and an afro you won't forget.
Bob Koomen
Amsterdam's Comedytrain philosopher-comic
A convinced doubter with a head full of unexpected questions walks onto stage—and suddenly reality doesn't feel so stubborn anymore. Bob Koomen, the Amsterdam-based comedian and Comedytrain member, has been turning audiences' certainty upside down since 2020 with his intriguingly offbeat perspective on everything from MDMA emergency kits to the peculiar logic of modern life. The 32-year-old from Hoorn traded a promising career in Human Movement Sciences for the comedy stage, and it shows in his analytical, wonderfully peculiar take on the world. He stormed the finals of the Leids Cabaret Festival in 2025 with his debut show Peer, earning rave reviews from NRC for his mind-bending alternatives to everyday absurdities. With appearances at Lowlands Festival three years running, a memorable guest spot on LUBACH that had Dutch audiences in stitches, and regular sold-out shows across the Netherlands, Bob has cemented himself as one of the country's most exciting new voices. Mentored by comedy heavyweight Theo Maassen and performing alongside the best of Comedytrain at Amsterdam's legendary Toomler, he's honed a style that's equal parts clever and cheeky. While best known for his Dutch-language work, he's proven his comedy transcends borders—and he's quickly becoming a favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024.
Craig Moran
Red-bearded Dubliner spinning theatrical tales
Picture a red-haired, bearded Dubliner who decided at 27 that being the class clown wasn't just a phase—it was a calling. Craig Moran dove headfirst into stand-up and hasn't looked back since, turning everyday observations into theatrical tales that'll have you in stitches (appropriately, since he co-owns In Stitches Comedy Club back home in Dublin).
This anecdotal storyteller brings physical comedy to life with act-outs that are as vivid as they are hilarious. Born and raised in Ireland's fair capital, Craig cut his teeth gigging across the Emerald Isle—from Comedy Cellar Dublin to The Empire in Belfast, Cork's Comedy Cavern to Galway's Ol'55. His rapid rise saw him reach the Chortle student competition finals in 2019, earning a coveted spot at Latitude Festival, followed by a hat-trick of impressive runs in 2022: Hardy Har best new act finalist, Cherry breakout act semi-finalist, and ComedyShed best new act semi-finalist.
Since bringing his Dublin charm to London, Craig's become a welcome addition to the Rum Monkey lineup, delighting audiences on the Comedy Boat. Whether he's recounting restaurant disasters or dissecting the absurdities of modern life, this former middle child knows exactly how to command center stage.
Currer Ball
2,000+ gigs · Leicester Festival Best Show winner
With hands-on giddiness and physical comedy that redefines the term "exquisite gags," this Glaswegian gagsmith has been lighting up London's comedy circuit for over a decade—and he's become a proper favourite on the Comedy Boat since bringing his unique brand of slightly mental brilliance to Battersea Barge. Winner of Best Show at Leicester Comedy Festival 2021, Currer has racked up an impressive 2000+ gigs across the UK, performing at legendary venues like The Comedy Store and becoming a regular on the capital's most exciting comedy nights. A Piccadilly New Act of the Year finalist in 2018 and Max Turner Comedy Competition finalist in 2016, he's been described by The Guardian as "quite weird, very funny," which is basically the highest compliment you can get in this business. Currently touring his true-story show "The Neighbours" about the suspiciously perfect couple next door (Notting Hill meets Rear Window, with more laughs and fewer murder mysteries), Currer combines sharp storytelling with razor-sharp observational comedy and that signature Glaswegian charm. Whether he's delivering perfectly crafted one-liners or diving into longer narratives about posh Glasgow and awkward dates, this is comedy that's as smart as it is silly—unconventional, charming, and always willing to try something different.
Daisy Roberts
King Gong winner · dating disasters, surgical wit
Picture this: a Cornish-born comic who traded seaside charm for London chaos and turned dating disasters into comedic gold. Daisy Roberts brings sharp, dry observations that cut through the nonsense of modern life with surgical precision and a twinkle in her eye. She's got that rare quality—what Chortle calls a "palpable air of authenticity"—that makes every story feel like she's letting you in on a secret over drinks.
This rising star hasn't just been turning heads; she's been collecting silverware like it's going out of style. Winner of the prestigious King Gong at The Comedy Store, Beat the Blackout, Ding Dong, and the 2024 INGTE award at the Cavendish Arms, Daisy's fearless energy has made her a circuit favourite across venues like Big Belly Bar and The White Hart. She took her storytelling prowess to Edinburgh Fringe 2025 with "Pillow Talkers," proving she's got the stamina for full-length shows alongside her killer tight sets.
Whether she's dissecting the absurdity of house-sharing or laying bare the horrors of modern romance, Daisy delivers with an honesty that's both savage and endearing—a true favourite since gracing the Comedy Boat stage.
Darcy Moreland
BBC New Comedy shortlist · the rugby-concussion comic
Picture this: an Australian rugby player gets absolutely clobbered on the field, wakes up with three months of his life mysteriously erased, and decides the logical next step is to turn the whole traumatic mess into comedy gold. Enter Darcy Moreland, a comic who's been tearing up the London circuit with his high-energy storytelling and fearless material. Since moving to the UK, he's made quite the name for himself—shortlisted for the BBC New Comedy Awards in 2023, runner-up at the Comedy Store's legendary King Gong, and a Max Turner Prize finalist in 2024. Not bad for someone who probably can't remember their postcode half the time.
Darcy's taken two sold-out shows to Edinburgh Fringe (Three Unwise Men and VIVA LA VISA), proving he can pack a room faster than you can say "concussion protocol." His debut solo hour, Concussion, blends sharp wit with deeply personal stories, and he's currently touring it across the UK and Australia. You'll find him gracing stages at Comedy Store, Top Secret, Backyard Comedy Club, and Hot Water—and he's been a favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024, bringing his uniquely chaotic Australian charm to our Battersea and Soho venues. If memory loss and rugby disasters sound like your kind of comedy, Darcy's your man.
Darren O'Toole
TV on BBC, RTÉ & ITV · aka 'Dapper Darren'
Picture this: a fast-talking Irish whirlwind who once got booed at Reading Festival for being from Roscommon and somehow turned it into comedy gold. That's the magic of Darren O'Toole, aka "Dapper Darren," the Tarmonbarry native who moved to London at nineteen with a dream and a delivery so rapid it clocks in at approximately 500mph.
This isn't your average stand-up journey. Darren's chaotic brilliance spans radio (where he became one of London's most listened-to presenters before getting spectacularly fired), television (with appearances on BBC, RTE, and ITV), and even poetry slams. His cult show "Video (and Pictures) Killed the Radio Star" is a genre-bending explosion of stand-up and verse that's earned him multiple sell-out runs and an invitation to perform at the Irish Embassy. He's hung out with Russell Brand, performed in Rome, and built an internet following that made "Dapper Darren" a name worth knowing.
A favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024, Darren brings his controversial, no-holds-barred style to every performance. Whether he's riffing on his Roscommon roots, dissecting his rise and fall from radio fame, or delivering poems about kidnapped horses (yes, really), this is comedy that moves at the speed of genius—or madness. Often both.
David Anthony
Rising international voice with laid-back charm
Quick wit meets laid-back charm in a comedian who turns cultural commentary into an art form. With sharp observations on modern society and refreshingly honest stories about family life, this London-based performer has become a rising star on the international circuit, regularly crossing the Atlantic to bring his offbeat humour to New York audiences and venues across Europe. Raised in Lewes, East Sussex, he brings a distinctly English sensibility to his comedy, exploring tradition and culture with the kind of clever insight that saw him reach the semi-finals of Leicester Square New Comedian of the Year. Whether hosting as House MC at City Comedy Club with his signature mix of self-deprecation and inclusive energy, or sharing the Edinburgh Fringe stage with his 2019 show Gummy Bears, he's built a reputation for making audiences feel both welcomed and wonderfully uncomfortable in equal measure. A favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024, his performances at The Rum Monkey Comedy Club showcase exactly why this comedian is one to watch—combining intelligent material with the warmth and cheek that keeps punters coming back for more laughs.
David Piccolomini
As seen on NBC & Kevin Hart's Road Comics
There's a special kind of comedian who can make you laugh about the awkward intersection of Dungeons & Dragons and dating apps—and David Piccolomini has absolutely mastered that delicate art. This Brooklyn-based comic has carved out his distinctive niche exploring all things nerdy, dirty, and dark, earning himself coveted spots on NBC, Kevin Hart's Road Comics on Peacock, and even NPR, where his honest, self-deprecating style resonated with audiences nationwide. When he's not on stage dissecting the beautiful chaos of modern romance, he's hosting two wildly popular podcasts that have developed cult followings: Tinder Tales, where guests spill their most cringeworthy and hilarious online dating disasters (named a top sex podcast by UPRoxx), and Bottle Episodes, where bad television gets the absolutely savage roasting it truly deserves. David's unique voice has also been featured in Hustler Magazine and Downtown Magazine, proving his particular brand of genius resonates far and wide across diverse audiences. He runs the beloved NYC show Christian Science Theatre 3000 and released his debut comedy special Goblin King on YouTube, shot in the prestigious comedy capital of Wilmington, Delaware. With over 200 online dates under his belt and a gift for turning personal awkwardness into comedy gold, David brings infectious energy to every performance.
Dimitri Bakanov
Comedy Store regular · razor-sharp Brexit-Britain wit
Picture this: a half-Russian, half-Ukrainian comic who grew up in Kherson and now dissects Brexit Britain with the kind of razor-sharp wit that makes you laugh, then question your morals, then laugh again because it's too late now. That's Dimitri Bakanov, and he's been absolutely smashing it on the London circuit and beyond.
Within his first year on stage, Dimitri stormed the finals of Leicester Square Theatre New Act of the Year and Laughing Horse New Act competitions, quickly establishing himself as one to watch. His dark, charming style—perfectly captured by Mike Manera's description as "never far from a quality punchline"—has taken him to the Comedy Store, the O2 Apollo Manchester, and Edinburgh Fringe's AAA Stand-Up Late. He reached the semi-finals of the 2023 UK Funny Women Awards and continues to pack out rooms with his honest, incisive material that turns geopolitical chaos into comedy gold.
A favourite on the Comedy Boat at Battersea Barge, Dimitri regularly commands the stage as MC and headliner, bringing that signature blend of unexpected perspectives and polished punchlines. Whether he's riffing on his Eastern European heritage or delivering brutally smart observations about modern life, this is a comedian who thinks as hard as he hits.
Dion Owen
200 shows, 10 countries, one bike · BBC & CBC
Picture this: a man pedals 200 shows across 10 countries in seven months, armed with nothing but jokes, cycling propaganda, and a keyboard for improvised songs. That's the kind of delightfully unhinged energy Dion Owen brings to every stage he graces—and he's been gracing the Comedy Boat since 2024, much to our absolute delight.
This Canadian-British comedian traded the frozen plains of British Columbia (via a near-decade stint in Montreal) for the UK comedy circuit, and we're thrilled he made the journey. Owen's not just a stand-up; he's a cycling advocate on a mission, blending polished observational comedy with two-wheeled zealotry in a way that somehow makes you want to bin your car keys. His 2024 Edinburgh Fringe show, Cyclopath—his fifth appearance at the festival—earned him an ISH Comedy Panel Award and a sold-out run, with the National Post declaring him "undoubtedly a comedian on the cusp of greatness."
He's filmed galas for the Winnipeg Comedy Festival, released his full special Live at the Bike Shop, and been featured on BBC, CBC, and Sirius XM. Whether he's spinning yarns or spinning pedals, Dion Owen delivers comedy that's clever, silly, and utterly infectious.
Dom Latour
King Gong winner · BBC New Comedian shortlist
Picture a comic who turns the mundane irritations of childhood—hay fever, left-handedness, and general malaise—into comedy gold that'll have you gasping between laughs. Dom Latour (LTR) brings a knowingly irresponsible outlook to the London circuit, wielding a sharp, punchline-heavy style that draws audiences into his hilariously distinct way of thinking. This rising star transforms everyday trauma into moments of pure comic catharsis, and his performances are testament to the power of finding humour in life's absurdities. Shortlisted for the BBC New Comedian of the Year Award in 2022 and crowned King Gong Winner, Dom has been smashing headline slots across the capital—from Camden Comedy Club to Sunset Comedy Club and beyond. His sets are masterclasses in precision-crafted observational comedy, where each punchline lands with surgical accuracy before building to the next laugh. A favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024, he's become a regular fixture at London's top venues, including The Boat Show and Top Secret Comedy Club, where audiences queue up for his uniquely twisted take on modern life. Whether he's dissecting dating disasters or pondering life's peculiarities, Dom's comedy gives you no choice but to cry with laughter.
Dominic Burrell
Promoters' 'One to Watch' · Comedy Boat favourite
With a Spanish passport so long it could double as a comedy routine itself (his full name being Dominic Luis Miguel Jimenez Garcia Fanta Limon Sanchez Burrell), this bearded Londoner brings razor-sharp energy to every stage he graces. Half Spanish, half English, and entirely hilarious, Dominic—affectionately known as Bin Shady—fuses punchy storytelling with rapid-fire one-liners and crowd interaction that turns strangers into conspirators. His material mines the comedic gold of dual nationality, exploring linguistic mishaps and cultural confusion with the precision of someone who's lived both sides of the coin. Nominated for the 2Northdown New Act Competition in 2022 and hailed by promoters across the UK as "One to Watch," Dominic has become a favourite on the Comedy Boat at Battersea Barge since 2024, proving time and again why he's the biggest name in comedy—at least when judged purely by passport word count. When he's not performing, he's running Comedy in Your Eye, the club he founded and now operates from Camden, where he self-deprecatingly reigns as "King of Admin." From the Cavendish Arms to Hot Water Comedy Club in Liverpool, Dominic's distinctive style makes him unmissable.
Edd Daggers
Founded Japan's first comedy club · three continents
When this man walks on stage, you can feel the voltage shift—he's got that rare mix of razor-sharp wit and playful chaos that only comes from years of surviving comedy clubs across three continents. Edd Daggers is the award-winning maverick who founded Osaka Comedy Club (originally ROR Comedy) back in 2011, single-handedly launching Japan's first proper stand-up scene and becoming a true pioneer of Asian comedy. With over 12 years of headlining everywhere from London Comedy Store to Sydney Comedy Store, he's perfected a killer blend of tightly-written zingers and spontaneous crowd work that keeps audiences on their toes. TimeOut Shanghai praised his "intelligent, witty and insightful" style, noting he "brings a real passion to the stage"—but honestly, you need to see it to believe it. This globe-trotting vegan firecracker divides his time between London and his adopted home of Osaka, and he's become a beloved regular on the Comedy Boat since 2024, bringing international flair and dangerously quick comebacks to our intimate venue. Whether he's riffing on cultural quirks or dissecting modern life, Edd delivers laughs that are smart, surprising, and utterly unforgettable.
Eugene Dusauzay
Warmed up Live at the Apollo · So You Think finalist
Picture a comedian who rocks up to Live at the Apollo expecting to be a punter, and somehow ends up warming up the crowd instead—that's the kind of electric energy Eugene Dusauzay brings to every stage he graces. This London-based comic with St. Lucian roots has been turning heads across the circuit since breaking through as a 2022 New Act of the Year Showcase Finalist and Edinburgh Fringe So You Think You're Funny Finalist.
Eugene's rapid ascent has seen him opening for comedy heavyweight Godfrey on sold-out nights at Leicester Square Theatre, taking his One of Each Tour to Lisbon and Berlin, and becoming a Leicester Square New Comedian Finalist along the way. Most recently, he reached the finals of the Museum of Comedy's Not So New Comedian of the Year 2025, proving he's got the chops to keep climbing.
From hosting packed rooms in Camden to working on his debut hour for UK theatres, Eugene crafts material that digs into modern life—relationships, social interactions, and the absurdities of trying to navigate today's world—with a soulful, observational edge. A firm favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024, Eugene Dusauzay delivers laughs with the kind of magnetic warmth that'll have you hooked from the first punchline.
Evaldas Karosas
Cynical Lithuanian mining the absurd for gold
Take a cynical mind forged in a frugal Lithuanian upbringing, train it in the art of British stand-up, and you've got a comedian who can make poverty, dating disasters, and trying to suck your own penis hilariously relatable. Evaldas Karosas has that rare gift of finding absurdity in the everyday with deadpan precision and deft, well-timed delivery that keeps you constantly guessing where the next laugh is coming from.
Since moving to the UK to develop his comedy, this award-winning act has been collecting silverware like it's going out of style—winning Beat The Frog World Series 2019, Cheshire Cat New Act of the Year, and multiple Comedy Store Manchester King Gong titles. Most recently, he stormed to the finals of the 2025 BBC New Comedy Awards (winning the Alexandra Palace heat) and nabbed runner-up at the Dutch Barn Spirit of Comedy Award, walking away with £1,000 and a Ricky Gervais-backed seal of approval.
A favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024, Evaldas brings his robustly put-together sets packed with pithy, efficient gags—from mastering Scouse accents to dissecting dating app height requirements with warmth and wit. Whether he's running half-marathons on margaritas or exploring masculinity and self-worth, this naturally charming Lithuanian has established himself as one of the most unique comic voices on the circuit.
Fabrice Rango
Writes for Comedy Central & ITV · roasts in 3 languages
Picture a comedian who can roast you in three languages before you've even finished your first pint – that's the multilingual chaos you're getting with this Congolese-Canadian whirlwind. Fabrice Rango brings goofball energy and lightning-fast wit to every stage he graces, whether he's delivering razor-sharp crowd work in English, French, or Portuguese.
This London-based comic has become a favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024, where his international edge and observational brilliance never fail to bring the house down. A writer for Comedy Central's Stupid Central and ITV's Sorry I Didn't Know, he's also been shortlisted for SNL UK and selected to compete in So You Think You're Funny? – one of the UK's longest-running new-comedy competitions. He's a finalist in Comedy Virgins Heat, Beat the Blackout at Up the Creek, and The Knockout, proving he's got the chops to survive any comedy gauntlet.
As resident MC at Comedy in Your Eye and support act for Paul Cabannes's 2025 European tour, Fabrice effortlessly reads the room and delivers original bits that defy convention. With production credits on Have I Got News For You and The Jonathan Ross Show, this multilingual maverick knows comedy inside out.
Farhan Solo
Deadpan wordplay with a knockout punch
Wordplay sharper than a Damascus blade meets deadpan delivery colder than a British winter—this is comedy that sneaks up on you before landing the knockout punch. With one-liners that twist Islamic references into unexpected punchlines (his rap name? Saleem Shady), Farhan Solo has been carving out his unique voice since bursting onto the scene in late 2019.
This British-Pakistani comic filters millennial life through the lens of race, religion, family, and dating with a dry wit that's earned him serious recognition. He's conquered the legendary So You Think You're Funny? competition as a 2021 finalist, claimed victory at the BBC New Comedy Awards 2025 Midlands heat, and became the first-ever winner of the Top Secret Comedy Club gong show. His sharp pen also landed him writing credits on ITV's Piglets in 2024.
From supporting Guz Khan to performing on The Muslims Are Coming tour, Farhan's taken his dark humour from UK clubs to international stages—including memorable sets aboard The Comedy Boat, where his unflinching material pairs perfectly with those epic riverside views. Whether he's at The Comedy Store or slicing through taboos at our Battersea Barge, this is a comic who proves that the best punchlines come from the most unexpected angles.
Fitzgerald Honger
British Comedian of the Year semi-finalist · deadpan wit
Dead-pan delivery with a wicked edge – that's the signature move of this British comedy talent who knows exactly how to land a punchline that catches you off guard. With observational material that mines the absurdity of modern relationships, work life, and taboo subjects, Fitz brings a refreshingly sharp perspective honed from years in PR and broadcast television with the likes of MTV and Discovery.
A semi-finalist in British Comedian of the Year 2024, this rising star has graced stages across the UK's top comedy circuits, from The Bill Murray to The Stand Newcastle and Hot Water Comedy Club. Beyond performing, there's a passion for platforming others too – as producer of Elefunny Comedy at the Blue Elephant Theatre, showcasing comedians from marginalized backgrounds has become a calling card.
Whether you caught that work-in-progress show What Else Is New? at Wandsworth Arts Fringe or any of the sketches lighting up London fringe theatres, you'll know this is a comedian who's constantly evolving. And since joining the line-up at The Rum Monkey, that distinctive dead-pan style has found its perfect home on the Comedy Boat, where dark humour meets the Thames and nobody's safe from the roast.
Gabriel Madden
Comedy Store King Gong winner · unstoppable riser
Picture a self-proclaimed "super duper Jewish" twentysomething from the cold hard streets of Friern Barnet, wielding a microphone like it's his ticket to buying his mum that dream marble kitchen countertop—and you've got Gabriel Madden, one of London's most unstoppable rising comics. This chicken pox survivor (yes, really) has an uncanny knack for turning uncomfortable truths into comedy gold, whether he's dissecting what you absolutely shouldn't say in a best man speech or taking aim at middle-class self-appointed "empaths" with withering precision. Gabriel's list of gong show victories reads like a greatest hits album: Comedy Store King Gong, Beat the Blackout (twice!), Beat the Frog, Backyard Knockout, and the ultimate crown—Comedy Knockout Champion of Champions. He charmed his way to the Leicester Square Theatre's New Comedian of the Year 2025 final, proving his natural stage confidence isn't just swagger—it's substance. When he's not conquering the circuit, Gabriel's busy building Miami Comedy London from scratch. A favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024, he brings playful front-row banter, deadpan brilliance, and enough self-deprecating charm to make you forget he's also quietly plotting comedy world domination.
Garrie Grubb
Cheltenham Comedian of the Year · 'Gay Micky Flanagan'
Picture this: the only gay lorry driver from Essex hitting the comedy circuit with stories that start wholesome and land somewhere decidedly filthy. That's Garrie Grubb, a self-proclaimed "Gay Micky Flanagan" who's been making waves with his anecdotal sets about family life, sexuality, and life on the road—delivered with perfect comic timing that's earned him praise as "a real technician of proper joke telling" from Geoff Norcott himself.
Since beating the gong at The Comedy Store and scooping the "Not So New" Comedian of the Year title in 2023, Garrie's been on a proper tear. He won the ISH Edinburgh panel prize in 2024 with Best in Class, reached the semi-finals of British Comedian of the Year 2023, and has taken his solo show "Filthy Boy" to Leicester Comedy Festival two years running. BBC Essex called him "one of the smartest comedy minds" around, and Edge Mag declared him "stunningly funny" with "perfect delivery."
A favourite on London's boat comedy scene, Garrie brings that cheeky Essex charm to every stage he graces. Represented by Mustard Talent Agency, this husband and father proves you can juggle lorries, kids, and killer punchlines—all with a filthy twist.
Ginnia Cheng
Google engineer by day, comedy dynamo by night
By day she's navigating tech algorithms at Google, but when the sun goes down, Ginnia Cheng trades spreadsheets for punchlines with the kind of infectious energy that turns any room into her playground. This Hong Kong-born, London-based dynamo stormed onto the scene by winning Louis Theroux's Looking for Louis competition, proving she's got the chops to impress even the most deadpan documentary legends. The BBC clearly agrees—she's been shortlisted for their New Comedy Award and handpicked for the BBC Writersroom's East Asian talent showcase.
A favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024, Ginnia brings her sex-positive, sharp-witted perspective to stages across London, from The Comedy Store (where she won King Gong) to Top Secret and Up the Creek. She's also the co-creator of Sex Standing Up Comedy, a show so good it regularly lands in TimeOut's Top 3 Things to Do in London. When she's not making audiences howl, she's lending her voice to Big Finish's Doctor Who adventures, narrating for The Guardian, or somehow finding time to become a chess boxer—because why not add combat sports to an already ridiculous CV? Ginnia's comedy is relatable, fearless, and utterly unmissable.
Greg Berman
As seen on Chicago P.D., The Rookie & NCIS
He's the comedian who flipped a truck on Chicago P.D. and somehow thought, "You know what? I should also become a tattoo artist." Greg Berman is a Ukrainian-born, Minnesota-raised, Los Angeles-based force of nature whose high-energy observational comedy bounces between his immigrant experience, absurdist cultural commentary, and the chaos of being a serial creative. With TV credits including The Rookie and NCIS, Greg's razor-sharp wit has taken him from Hollywood's biggest clubs to international stages, including his London residencies where he's become a favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024. He's not just a stand-up—he's the creator and host of Comedy Ink, where he interviews comedians while tattooing them (yes, really), and his debut special Here for a Bit now streams on Mometu after filming at The Whitley theater in Hollywood. A former magician who speaks fluent Russian, solves Rubik's cubes in under a minute, and once wrote jokes for Bernie Sanders and Susan Sarandon, Greg's the kind of multi-hyphenate who thrives in beautiful disaster. Whether he's flipping vehicles, flipping punchlines, or flipping between creative disciplines, this chaotic genius brings an infectious energy that's impossible to ignore.
Hamish Shepherd
King Gong winner · BBC New Comedy shortlist
Dark, sarcastic, and deliciously cheeky—Hamish Shepherd delivers comedy with the kind of bite that makes you laugh before you've even processed what hit you. This Australian transplant made waves in Sydney before relocating to London, where he's quickly become a favourite on the Comedy Boat and beyond. His ancestors were apparently sent to a penal colony for being too funny (among other crimes), and he's clearly inherited the family gift for trouble-making humour.
Since arriving in the UK, Hamish has been racking up accolades faster than you can say "g'day." He's conquered the Comedy Store's King Gong, claimed victory at The Blackout at Up the Creek, and won The Ding Dong Gong Show at Big Belly. In 2024 alone, he was shortlisted for the BBC New Comedy Awards and reached the finals of Leicester Square New Comedian of the Year. Not satisfied with that, he also made it to the semi-finals of Spirit of Comedy Cardiff in 2025—all while being a two-time state finalist for Australia's National Raw competition before his big move.
Whether he's dissecting the absurdities of modern life or delivering razor-sharp observations with that distinctive Aussie edge, Hamish's sets are a masterclass in controlled chaos. A regular fixture at Rum Monkey since 2024, he's proven time and again why he's one to watch.
Holly Hudson
200k+ followers, millions of views · published author
Picture a third culture kid who's ping-ponged between Pakistan, Senegal, Tunisia, Spain, Oman, the Philippines, Mexico, and somehow ended up raising her son solo in London—because obviously, that's the *logical* next step. Holly Hudson ditched her actor-in-New-York life for the stand-up circuit, and the internet promptly lost its mind. With over 200,000 followers devouring her viral sketches comparing American chaos to British propriety, she's become the comedic translator we didn't know we needed.
The author of *The Badass Single Mom's Survival Guide* and the mastermind who launched Don't Tell Comedy's first European branch in Paris, Holly's got credentials as international as her accent is confusing. Her hour-long show *Shipfaced* has sailed through fringe festivals across the UK and Europe, proving that mid-life career pivots can actually work out. When she's not ghostwriting bestsellers or coaching storytellers, she's perfecting the art of dissecting dating disasters and the absurdity of aging gracefully (spoiler: she's not).
A favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024, Holly brings her sharp wit and magnetic stage presence to Battersea Barge, where her observations about single parenting and cultural mayhem land with precision. She's proof that starting comedy after your kid moves out is both brave and slightly unhinged—in the best possible way.
Jake Steers
One of The Stand-Up Club's youngest headliners
Some comics walk on stage with swagger, others with charm—Jake Steers does both with the easy warmth of someone who could convince you to lend them your car keys within thirty seconds of meeting. His conversational style isn't just a technique; it's a superpower that transforms audiences into co-conspirators, making every punchline feel like an inside joke between mates down the pub.
Since bursting onto the London circuit, Jake has become a regular fixture at The Stand-Up Club (one of the youngest acts to ever secure a coveted Saturday night spot), Hot Water Comedy Club, and Top Secret Comedy Club. His natural delivery and off-the-cuff brilliance have earned him spots at The Glee Club and Manchester's legendary Frog & Bucket, while his adventures across the Irish Sea have made him a favourite at Dublin's In Stitches and Craic Den comedy clubs.
Whether he's performing 25-minute opening sets at sold-out theatres in Stoke, reaching the British Comedian of the Year semi-finals, or doing stand-up to bewildered bus passengers in Lancaster (yes, that actually happened and made the local news), Jake brings the same infectious energy every single time. A favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024, he's the kind of act that makes you grateful you didn't stay home watching Netflix.
Jay Handley
A decade of Fringe · Hackney Empire & Comedy Store
Picture a man who once sculpted beautiful oak furniture with his bare hands, then decided to chuck it all in and sculpt laughter instead. That's Jay Handley in a nutshell—a career pivot that's clearly paid dividends. With over a decade honing his craft on stages across the UK, he's become a master of imaginative, polished gags and the kind of golden banter that turns front-row punters into instant collaborators.
Jay's a regular fixture at some of the country's finest rooms—The Comedy Store, The 99 Club, and even the O2 Indigo—and he's been taking Edinburgh by storm every year since 2011 with his solo shows and his legendary late-night Banshee Labyrinth sets. He also happens to be the resident host at Fat Penguin Comedy Club, where he keeps the ship sailing with charm and razor-sharp wit. A two-time finalist in the Birmingham New Act of the Year Awards, Jay's credentials speak for themselves.
Since making his debut at the Comedy Boat in 2024, he's become a firm favourite on the Battersea Barge, delivering sets that blend clever wordplay with effortless crowd work. Whether he's riffing on new fatherhood or the absurdities of modern life, Jay brings warmth, intelligence, and proper proper funny to every stage he graces.
Jenny Tian
1M+ followers · sold-out theatres, viral sensation
With over a million followers hanging on her every word, this Finnish-born, Sydney-raised powerhouse turned TikTok fame into sold-out theatres faster than you can say "internet sensation." Jenny Tian's debut solo show Picture This racked up 900,000 YouTube views and sold out across Australia's east coast, while her follow-up Chinese Australian: A Tale of Internet Fame conquered Australia, Edinburgh Fringe, and London's Boulevard Theatre with equal swagger. A scene-stealer on Taskmaster Australia Season 2, she's snagged a Logie nomination for Best New Talent and graced the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Galas in 2024 and 2025 with her razor-sharp observations. Now based in NYC after stints in London, Jenny's fearless wit dissects everything from phone snatching to Scottish accents to freezing her eggs with the kind of confidence that comes from double degrees (arts and commerce, University of New South Wales) and years perfecting her craft since 2019. She's co-creating the comedy series Supermarket for Screen Australia, hosts The Parasocial Social Club podcast with Kevin Jin, and has become a favourite on the Comedy Boat since bringing her distinctive voice and unapologetic energy to Rum Monkey audiences in 2024.
Jonas Jamarik
Chortle Hotshot 2026 · razor-edged one-liners
One look at this guy's material and you'll immediately clock something different—jokes so sharp they could slice through a foggy Tuesday morning. Jonas Jamarik brings that rare blend of wit that feels both effortlessly clever and dangerously unpredictable, firing off one-liners with an American accent that somehow landed in the UK comedy circuit and stayed for the chaos. Having honed his craft writing and performing at the legendary Second City in Toronto, he's taken that training and filtered it through the absurdity of British life, creating something uniquely his own.
A semi-finalist in the Chortle Student Comedy Award 2022 and nominee for the 2Northdown New Act Competition the same year, Jonas has been steadily building his reputation on the scene. He's earned praise from cult comedy heroes like Brent Weinbach and Alec Sulkin, and was recently selected for the prestigious Chortle Hotshots 2026 showcase—proof that the comedy world has noticed his distinctively twisted perspective.
A favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024, Jonas has become a Rum Monkey regular with his dry, absurdist take on everyday life. Whether he's dissecting modern minutiae or deploying perfectly timed bombs of weirdness, he's the kind of act who leaves audiences equal parts delighted and disturbed. Book your tickets before everyone else catches on.
Jordan MacDonald
Austin-raised cowboy bringing farm-bred fire
Picture a Texas cowboy who traded tumbleweeds for tube strikes and decided London needed a taste of high-energy, farm-bred hilarity. This Austin-raised comic brings observational fire that strikes the perfect balance between razor-sharp wit and delightfully silly storytelling—whether he's unpacking the absurdities of multiracial family dynamics on a Texas ranch, skewering cultural quirks he's discovered touring across five continents, or simply slinking across the stage firing off quick witticisms with that unmistakable cowboy cool. Jordan's racked up serious credentials, from winning Best Comedy Short Film at Austin Sketchfest 2024 to performing an eye-watering 64 showcases at Edinburgh Fringe, plus screen time on Netflix's Magic for Humans and the big-screen sci-fi epic Alita: Battle Angel. He's charmed audiences at Hollywood Improv, The Comedy Store LA, and London favourites like Top Secret Comedy Club and Backyard Comedy Club, not to mention international stops from Boom Chicago in Amsterdam to Cosmic Comedy Club in Berlin. Known as "The Black Cowboy Comedian," he also co-hosts the wildly entertaining podcast 2NAP straight from Austin's comedy scene. A beloved fixture at Rum Monkey since making his debut on the Comedy Boat, Jordan's become known for his relaxed-but-electric stage presence and the kind of jokes that land with a grin and linger long after last orders.
Josh Faulkener
Unfiltered one-liner merchant, 140+ shows deep
Sharp, silly, and completely unfiltered, this hearing-impaired one-liner merchant fires off jokes with the precision of a sniper and the cheek of someone who knows exactly what he shouldn't say—then says it anyway. Gigging since 2012, he's racked up over 140 stand-up shows and earned his stripes sharing stages with comedy heavyweights Rob Brydon, Gary Delaney, and Brett Goldstein. His rapid-fire material has earned him spots on BBC and ITV, as well as a spot in the finals of the 2025 UK Pun Championship at Leicester Comedy Festival—because apparently he's as good with wordplay as he is with wickedness. He's been a favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024, bringing his delightfully dark perspective to audiences who know that the best comedy comes from places we probably shouldn't laugh about (but absolutely do). Tim Vine himself gave him the stamp of approval with a simple "Ha. Very good," which in Tim Vine terms is basically a standing ovation. A regular at major clubs across London and the south including Hot Water Comedy Club and The Frog and Bucket, he's the comic who makes you laugh at things you definitely shouldn't—and you'll love every guilty second of it.
Junior Booker
BBC Radio 1Xtra Comedy Gala · South London charisma
Pure charisma meets razor-sharp observations when this South London dynamo hits the stage. Junior Booker has that rare gift of making a room feel like you're all hanging out in his living room—except his living room happens to be packed with perfectly timed punchlines about family life, football loyalties (he bleeds Manchester United red), and the absurdities of modern Britain.
Since launching his comedy career, Junior has been absolutely tearing through the circuit. He's taken his infectious energy to BBC Radio 1Xtra's Comedy Gala and The Lateish Show, hosted his own sell-out nights at Boxpark Croydon, and become a regular face at Top Secret Comedy Club, Backyard Comedy Club, and Comedy Unleashed. Drawing inspiration from legends like Dave Chappelle and Kevin Hart while carving out his own distinctly British voice, Junior's material bounces effortlessly between personal stories and sharp social commentary.
A proud girl dad who runs his own successful comedy nights across London, he's become a favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024, bringing that unmistakable South London swagger to Battersea Barge. His one-man show "Gosh Darn It" showcases exactly why this young comedian is one to watch—he's genuine, he's hilarious, and he's only getting started.
Karyna Aslanova
Funny Women finalist · Kyiv's multi-hyphenate marvel
When the world hands you lemons, most people make lemonade. Karyna Aslanova makes comedy gold—bitter, sharp, and absolutely intoxicating. Hailing from Kyiv, Ukraine, this multi-hyphenate marvel (comedian-actor-director-photographer-filmmaker, take a breath) has been turning agony into art and oversharing into a gift since she first stepped on stage in 2017. After cutting her teeth on comedy circuits across Europe, she landed in London in 2022 and immediately made herself at home on every stage from the glam to the gloriously dodgy.
A favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024, Karyna specialises in excavating the worst and oddest traits of human nature with surgical precision and a wicked grin. She's a Funny Women Content Creator Awards Finalist (2023), a BBC New Comedy Awards contender, and the kind of performer who'll make you laugh while contemplating your own mortality. Her philosophical yet relatable take on life's absurdities has earned her spots at Lancashire Fringe, Camden Comedy Club, and countless basement rooms where dreams are made (or at least thoroughly examined).
Whether she's embodying characters, directing sketches for British Comedy Guide, or serving up stand-up that feels like free therapy with punchlines, Karyna brings an energy that's equal parts vulnerable and ferocious. You'll laugh. You'll wince. You'll book your next ticket immediately.
Kat Nip
King Gong winner · the 'Polish Joan Rivers'
Picture a whirlwind of Eastern European pizzazz colliding with fearless storytelling—that's the force of nature you're about to witness. This Berlin-based Polish powerhouse has been dubbed a 'joke kalashnikov' and the 'Polish Joan Rivers', and once you catch her rapid-fire delivery packed with brutal honesty and unexpected punchlines, you'll understand why.
A globe-trotting comedian who's conquered stages from Cape Town to Tokyo, Rio to New York, she's collected accolades like comedy trophies: winner of the Comedy Store London King Gong in 2022, double winner of Blackout at Up the Creek in 2021, and writer-performer for Comedy Central Poland's "Mini-Mocks" series. Her 2024 special 'Traitor' is now streaming on Outflix.TV, following her debut hour 'Liability' which stormed Edinburgh Fringe. She's graced ARTE TV and Buzzfeed UK, and back in Berlin, she runs the all-female Queen Bees Comedy collective.
A favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024, she brings her high-octane energy to our intimate cabaret atmosphere, where her stories about Catholic Poland, international shenanigans, and life's absurdities land with pinpoint precision. Expect chain-smoking tales, drunken wisdom, and a masterclass in giving zero f*cks.
Kazeem Jamal
South East London's firework storyteller
Imagine a firework display crossed with a master storyteller who's just had three espressos—that's the energy Kazeem Jamal brings to every stage he graces. This South East London powerhouse burst onto the scene in 2018 and hasn't stopped making waves since, combining razor-sharp punchlines with the kind of charismatic delivery that turns first-time audience members into devoted fans.
Before trading lesson plans for punchlines, Kazeem spent years working in education with children with special needs, bringing that same dedication and connection to his comedy craft. His hard work paid off spectacularly: he's a winner of both the Max Turner Prize for Comedy and The Comedy Store's legendary King Gong, while also earning a nomination for BBC's New Comedian of the Year. You've likely seen him lighting up screens on Comedy Central Live or caught his viral sketches racking up millions of views across social media.
A favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024, Kazeem performs at nearly every major club across the UK and Europe, from Glee to Up The Creek. The Voice newspaper named him one of their "26 to Watch in 2026" for good reason—with plans to launch his own tour in 2027, this dynamic performer is heading in one direction only: straight to the top.
Kevin Casey White
Award-winning special 'Harangue' · Comedy Central
Picture a human exclamation point onstage—that's Kevin Casey White in full flight, bouncing between FaceTiming no-show audience members and spiralling magnificently about his bald spot. The Brooklyn-based comic brings a cheerful cynicism and dynamic stage presence that's earned him shout-outs from Will Arnett and a slot on Romania's Got Talent (yes, really). His debut special Harangue, released through 800 Pound Gorilla Records, scooped Best Stand Up Special at The Comedy Film Festival in 2025 and landed on The Comedy Bureau's 100 Best Things in Comedy list.
Kevin's chaotic energy has graced Comedy Central's Alternatino, Amazon Prime, Audible, and even the 2025 Vans Warped Tour—because why shouldn't stand-up crash a punk rock festival? When he's not roasting Joe Rogan or getting existential about ceiling fans, he co-hosts Close Calls, a podcast about near-death experiences with Lizzy Cassidy. The Chicago Tribune described him as "the physical expression of an exclamation point," which feels bang on.
A favourite on the Rum Monkey stages since making his London debut, Kevin brings that Brooklyn hustle and high-octane storytelling to Battersea and Soho with the kind of unhinged charm that makes every set feel like controlled chaos. Don't miss him.
Kuan-Wen Huang
Guardian Top 10 Jokes of the Fringe · Channel 4
Picture this: a Chartered Accountant by day who moonlights as a force of nature on stage—Kuan-wen Huang is the Taiwanese comedian who proves that number-crunching and belly laughs aren't mutually exclusive. This multilingual marvel performs in English, German, and Mandarin (and he's fluent in French, just to show off), bringing his unique perspective on identity, queerness, and life to comedy clubs across the UK and beyond.
Since bursting onto the scene, Kuan-wen has racked up an impressive CV: his debut solo show 'Ilha Formosa' transferred to a sold-out Soho Theatre run and toured Europe, one of his gags earned a spot in The Guardian's Top 10 Jokes of the Fringe, and he's appeared on Comedy Central at the Edinburgh Fringe (2020) and Comedy Central Live (2022 and 2023). He's also graced BBC Radio 4's Fresh From the Fringe and Channel 4's 'Jokes Only An Immigrant Can Tell', proving his comedy translates across every medium.
A Leicester Comedy Festival Best Show nominee, Sean Lock Award finalist, and runner-up in the Frog and Bucket World Series, Kuan-wen is quickly becoming a favourite on the Comedy Boat, delighting audiences with his sharp wit and irresistible charm since joining the Rum Monkey family.
Laura Quinn Goh
Sold-out solo hour · as seen on Comedy Central UK
Picture a 4ft 11in ball of Singaporean sass who crossed continents to perform comedy about falling in love with a man on death row—and somehow makes it darkly hilarious. Laura Quinn Goh stormed the Scottish scene in late 2021, quickly becoming a weekend regular at famed venues like The Stand and Monkey Barrel before conquering London's circuit with sets at Big Belly, Backyard Comedy, and The Boat Show. Her debut solo hour, You, Me, and Your Prison Officer, sold out runs in Manchester, Glasgow, and Singapore, tackling heavy themes like censorship and the death penalty with trademark irreverence. A finalist in the 2024 West End New Act competition and recipient of a Special Mention for the Spirit of Glasgow Award at the Glasgow International Comedy Festival 2023, she's also graced screens on STV and Comedy Central UK. Since bringing her fierce energy to the Battersea Barge, she's become a favourite on the Comedy Boat, delivering sets that blend sharp social commentary with wickedly personal storytelling. Whether she's skewering Singapore's pro-death penalty stance or sharing erotic prison letter tales, Laura proves that sometimes the darkest material makes for the brightest laughs.
Louis Pollick
Gap Tooth Comedy founder · awkwardly brilliant
Picture this: a gap-toothed South African with the energy of a sleepy koala wanders onto the stage, gives you that killer smile, and proceeds to dissect Tesco's chicken choices with the precision of a confused forensic scientist. That's Louis Pollick for you—awkwardly brilliant, delightfully unpredictable, and so dry you might mistake him for beef jerky. His comedy feels like watching someone think out loud while simultaneously questioning every life decision that brought them to this exact moment, including the ones involving his questionable relationship with his dad. A favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024, Louis has been blessing our Battersea Barge with his unique brand of confused genius, earning his stripes through seven memorable sets that prove you don't need high energy when you've got that much charm. When he's not making audiences laugh through sheer bewilderment, Louis hosts his own podcast "Louis Learns Stuff" where he interrogates his comedian mates in the hope they'll teach him something about the world—though we're fairly certain he's teaching us all a thing or two about embracing the glorious uncertainty of stand-up comedy. He also runs Gap Tooth Comedy around London, because apparently one stage wasn't enough.
Luke Chilton
London's gleefully unhinged storyteller
He's the type of comic who'll make you question whether you're watching genius or beautiful chaos—the answer is both. Luke Chilton has been setting London's comedy circuit ablaze with his endearingly unhinged brand of stand-up, blending storytelling with the kind of off-beat energy that makes every set feel like a delightful accident. A finalist for BBC New Comedy Award 2019 and NATYS at Hackney Empire in 2022, this South London loveable weirdo has also been shortlisted for British Comedian of the Year twice. He's provided tour support for comedy heavyweights Jack Whitehall and Bobby Mair, performed bilingual comedy in Spanish, and even released his debut Edinburgh Fringe show Netflix and Chilton in 2024. His latest offering, the 2026 comedy special ButtQuest, proves he's not slowing down anytime soon. A favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024, Luke brings his chaotically brilliant style to Rum Monkey audiences who can't get enough of his unique perspective—whether he's dissecting his lazy eye or confessing he fancies his stepmum.
Luke Oliver
Royal Central-trained whirlwind of energy
Some comedians tiptoe onto stage. Luke Oliver explodes into it—a whirlwind of quick wit and infectious energy that has audiences roaring before they've even settled in their seats. This London-based performer trained at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, honing the razor-sharp timing and crowd work that makes him such a formidable host. Whether he's slicing through a packed room at City Comedy Club or turning everyday observations into comedic gold, Luke commands attention with the kind of effortless charisma that promoters dream about. "This guy just goes from casual comedian waiting to go on, to a comedian that has got all the audience laughing out loud," raved the Hammersmith Comedy Club, and they're not wrong. He's taken his craft to Edinburgh Fringe multiple times (including his 2023 run in Artist/Muse and a return in 2025), proving he's equally at home in intimate comedy clubs and festival stages. A favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024, Luke brings that signature blend of cheeky charm and theatrical flair that keeps audiences coming back for more—whether he's delivering killer sets or steering the ship as MC.
Mags McHugh
BBC's Naked Lunch · championed by Ricky Gervais
When your own mother describes you as "Big Fat Fucker" instead of "Best Friends Forever," you know you've got someone who doesn't shy away from the truth—and that's exactly what makes Mags McHugh absolutely electric on stage. This powerhouse Irish comedian, once described as "quirky as a chipmunk" by an Edinburgh reviewer, brings a razor-sharp tongue and an unapologetically bold style that's earned her standing ovations across the UK circuit and a very special endorsement from Ricky Gervais himself.
Fresh from starring on BBC's Naked Lunch and snagging 4-star reviews for her Edinburgh Fringe shows Snack Chat and Blacksheep, Mags combines high-energy storytelling with quick-fire punchlines that hit like a freight train. She's a mental health worker by day who admits she's "not good at her job" in suicide prevention—the kind of dark, honest comedy that makes her a perfect fit for our boat. Runner-up in the Not So New Comedian of the Year 2022 and winner of both the Ding Dong competition at Vauxhall and Beat the Blackout at Up The Creek, she's proven she can handle any room, any vibe, any crowd. A favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024, Mags lights up Battersea Barge with the kind of fearless, no-nonsense comedy that'll leave you gasping for air.
Marc Salmon
Musical comedy with a Buddhist's mischief
Picture a Buddhist with a guitar, a mischievous grin, and the kind of chaotic energy that makes rooms lean in. That's Marc Salmon – a London-based comedian who interweaves indie folk tunes with sharp, offbeat observations about life, class, and the beautifully messy business of trying to be a decent person. Equal parts philosopher and troublemaker, he's been called "naturally funny" by Mark Simmons and "very f***ing funny" by Mike OT of The Free Association Improv, while Latest 7 Magazine dubbed him "confidently shambolic" – which, let's be honest, is the ideal vibe for a comedian who describes himself as a "practicing Buddhist (and I need A LOT of practice)."
Originally from Kent but thankfully escaped to London, Marc's high-energy stand-up blends wry wit with surreal tangents, all delivered with a warmth that feels like a mate who's genuinely delighted to be there. He's a West End New (Old) Act of the Year 2024 finalist, took his show *Salmon and Friends* to Edinburgh Fringe, and hosts *The Bardo Podcast*, exploring creativity, philosophy, and inner change. A favourite on the Comedy Boat since bringing his unique brand of chaos to our shores, Marc also facilitates trauma-informed workshops when he's not making audiences laugh themselves silly.
Mariah Girouard
Barcelona's Comedian of the Year · Fringe debut
Don't let her tiny frame fool you—Mariah Girouard commands a stage with the ferocity of someone who's survived attempted murder and lived to tell jokes about it. This Barcelona-based American firecracker has been tearing up comedy clubs across Europe, from winning Barcelona's Comedian of the Year (2022) to snagging the Brighton Fringe Award (2023) for her split show with Jamie Lerner. She's a semi-finalist on Romania's Stand-Up Revolution and took her debut solo hour 'Good Girl' to Edinburgh Fringe 2024, proving she's anything but the good girl society expects her to be. Mariah fuses stand-up, storytelling, and spoken word into a raw, unhinged cocktail of female sexuality, dating disasters (Latino vs British men, anyone?), and societal expectations. She's hosted the infamous Midweek Crisis at The Comedy Clubhouse Barcelona, performed at poetry slams, and regularly brings her chaotic energy to our stage at The Rum Monkey—a favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024. Self-described as "hateful and a bit of a bitch," but working to better herself, Mariah delivers comedy that's equal parts relatable and uncomfortable, sexy and savage. Whether she's ranting about hypochondria, vaginal vindictiveness, or the time she definitely didn't serve c**t, she's the scapegoat who'll say everything you've always wanted to but couldn't out of fear of being a bad person.
Martin Durchov
Sofia-born, making London howl since 2017
When a Bulgarian walks into a British comedy club, you might expect culture clash chaos – and with Martin Durchov, you'd be absolutely right. This Sofia-born sensation turned London into his comedy playground back in November 2017, and hasn't stopped making audiences howl since. Martin's charm lies in his razor-sharp observations about life as a foreigner navigating the peculiarities of UK life, delivered with a self-deprecating wit that makes even the grumpiest punter crack a smile.
Since bursting onto the circuit, he's become a festival darling, reaching the finals of So You Think You're Funny, Leicester Square New Comedian of the Year, and the Chortle Student Comedy Award in 2019. But Martin doesn't just impress judges – he slays the notoriously brutal gong shows, winning King Gong at The Comedy Store London and becoming a multiple champion at The Blackout at Up The Creek. That's no mean feat when you're armed with just two minutes and a microphone.
A firm favourite on the Comedy Boat since stepping aboard, Martin brings the kind of energy that makes the Battersea Barge rock harder than the Thames currents. Whether you're hearing about Bulgarian immigration policy or his dating disasters, expect solid gags, confident delivery, and laugh-out-loud moments that'll have you spilling your drink.
Mat Wills
The Comedy Boat's filthy-mouthed ringmaster
Picture this: a charismatic whirlwind with cheeky Cockney charm and an absolutely filthy mouth walks on stage, grabs the mic, and instantly owns the room. That's Mat Wills—MC extraordinaire, crowd-roaster, and the Comedy Boat's favourite ringmaster since 2024, with a staggering 232 MC appearances and 78 comic sets under his belt. Known online as @shortbloke, this self-deprecating maestro commands audiences with fearless material that leaves no taboo unturned and no punter un-roasted. He turned heads as the underground hit of Edinburgh Fringe 2024 with his outrageous solo show My Wife Took My Dad to a Brothel (I Drove), a brutally honest, heartwarming tribute to family and the absurd lengths we go to for love. Mat's infectious energy and no-holds-barred approach have earned him viral fame (check out his clip "Chinese Chinese"), a feature in the Times Literary Supplement's article "From philosophy to stand-up," and even a nude scene in his movie acting debut A Brothers Bond on Amazon Prime (you've been warned). When he's not commanding the Rum Monkey stage or hosting our podcast, you'll find him at 101 Comedy Club Folkestone or plotting his Edinburgh Fringe 2025 return. Brilliant MC, fearless comic, absolute legend. Warning: not for the faint-hearted.
Matt Foster
Just For Laughs Originals · Canadian club headliner
Picture this: a professional drummer who traded his sticks for a microphone and discovered he could make entire rooms erupt with laughter instead of just keeping the beat. That's the origin story of Matt Foster, a Canadian comedian who's been slinging punchlines since 2015 and hasn't looked back.
After launching his comedy career in Calgary, Matt's disarming likability and razor-sharp mind caught the attention of Yuk Yuk's Comedy, Canada's largest comedy club chain, who snapped him up in 2016. He went on to headline clubs across Canada, appeared on the Just For Laughs Originals series showcasing the best of Canadian comedy, and even snagged second place at Calgary's FunnyFest Comedy Competition in 2017. His debut album, Talking To Strangers, now plays on Sirius XM Comedy Club, proving those late-night gig muscles translate beautifully to recorded gold.
Now based in London, Matt has become a favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024, conjuring eruptions of laughter from seemingly out of nowhere with his fierce comic mind and that unmistakable drummer's timing. His observations hit like a perfectly-landed cymbal crash—unexpected, satisfying, and impossible to ignore.
Matt Rouse
As seen on The Lateish Show · BBC New Comedy nominee
Picture this: a sharp-witted comic who can make a packed room hang on every word with his laid-back delivery before demolishing them with perfectly crafted punchlines that leave audiences gasping for air. Matt Rouse started his comedy journey in 2018 and immediately proved he wasn't messing about, scooping the Hastings Fringe New Act Competition in 2022 and earning a BBC New Comedy Awards nomination the same year. Before that, he'd been a semi-finalist in So You Think You're Funny? in 2019 and a finalist in Brighton Grin in 2021, building serious momentum on the circuit. The rising star caught Channel 4's attention and performed stand-up on the BAFTA-winning The Lateish Show with Mo Gilligan in 2023, showing the telly execs what London's comedy circuit already knew. His smart, alternative observational humour comes wrapped in what Chortle described as a "solid attitude he skilfully exploits"—infectious charm meets razor-sharp wit. A favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024, Matt's been making waves across the UK's finest clubs with his fresh viewpoint and cleverly packaged material. Whether he's dissecting modern life, unpacking relatable scenarios, or finding comedy gold in everyday absurdities, this is a major new talent who knows exactly how to work a room and leave them wanting more.
Micah Hall
King Gong winner · The Lateish Show & Comedy Central
Picture a South London comic who can shift from hard-hitting honesty to laid-back charm in a single breath—that's the magic of Micah Hall. With a calm, confident poise that belies his razor-sharp material, he's won over some of the toughest crowds in the country, claiming victory at the infamous King Gong at The Comedy Store and scooping up The BlackOut crown at Up The Creek. Not bad for someone who swapped basketball for punchlines.
Micah's rise has been meteoric: he's graced the stage of the BAFTA-winning Lateish Show with Mo Gilligan, earned a coveted spot on the Pleasance Comedy Reserve at Edinburgh Fringe 2023, and joined Babatunde Aleshe on his smash-hit Babahood tour. His Comedy Central Live set had audiences howling at tales of dodgy haircuts and British weather woes, while his material on race, relationships, and the absurd (yes, unicorns) keeps every show unpredictable.
A favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024, Micah's become a Battersea Barge regular, delivering sets that blend personal storytelling with fearless social commentary. Russell Kane calls him "definitely one to watch"—and trust us, you'll want front-row seats for this rising star.
Michael Hackett
Victorious Festival winner · bestselling author
Michael Hackett is a Manchester-born comedian currently based in London, where he regularly performs at The Rum Monkey Comedy Club. Standing at an impressive 6'7", Hackett's journey to stand-up comedy is as unconventional as his towering presence. Originally trained as a dentist, he left the profession to pursue his dreams at a French clown school—only to be expelled. Undeterred, he joined the circus as a trapeze artist but suffered a testicular injury in an accident, finally leading him to pick up the microphone and follow his true calling in comedy.
Hackett's career has flourished with notable achievements including winning Victorious Festival 2022, authoring the bestselling book 'Gobsmacked!' about his dental experiences, and releasing his acclaimed stand-up special 'Rogue Boy'. He's a regular panellist on Ustreme's 'Left Right & Centre' and has graced the Edinburgh Fringe Festival stage multiple times with shows like 'A Giant Misfit' and 'The Late Mike Show'. Known for his dark comedy, razor-sharp crowdwork, and fearless storytelling, Hackett delivers provocative, high-energy performances inspired by comedians like Dave Chappelle and Bill Burr. Now a husband and father, he continues to tour extensively across the UK and internationally.
Michael Shafar
100M+ views · specials on Amazon Prime
This Melbourne-born comedian doesn't just push boundaries—he bulldozes through them with a grin and a carefully crafted one-liner about his missing testicle. After ditching a law career to pursue stand-up, Michael Shafar has become one of London's most electrifying new acts, racking up over 100 million views online with his dark, unapologetic takes on everything from cancer survival to political correctness gone mad. A two-time testicular cancer survivor, he's turned personal trauma into comedy gold with his acclaimed specials (A)LIVE on Amazon Prime and Alright, Next Joke on YouTube. Since bursting onto the scene as a 2016 RAW Comedy National Finalist, he's represented Australia at the Laugh Factory's Funniest Person in the World Competition, earned 4.5-star reviews from The Age, and headlined clubs across the UK, Australia, Asia, and beyond. Now based in London where he's a favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024, this Jewish schnitzel enthusiast brings over 150,000 followers along for the ride as he tours his brutally honest show Inappropriate across Europe. When he's not on stage, he's creating viral content that's amassed millions of views, proving that sometimes the most inappropriate things are exactly what we need to hear.
Mike Bodz
Just For Laughs West · 1,000+ shows and counting
Sharp wit meets relentless energy when this Vancouver export steps up to the mic. Mike Bodz doesn't just tell jokes—he commands the stage with the kind of infectious charisma that turns strangers into believers, one perfectly-timed punchline at a time. With seven years of honing his craft across Canada's top comedy clubs, including legendary stages at Yuk Yuks and Rick Bronson's House of Comedy, he's proven himself as the kind of comic who can work any room, any crowd, any night.
His journey from the West Coast comedy scene to London's darkest corners has only sharpened his edge. Along the way, Mike's graced the stage at Just For Laughs West and fearlessly battled it out in roast competitions, proving he's got the chops for both clever storytelling and brutal one-liners. With over a thousand gigs under his belt, this Canadian transplant has become a beloved fixture in London's comedy landscape, including becoming a favourite on the Comedy Boat since making London home.
What makes Mike special? It's that rare combination of dynamic energy and sharp observational comedy that keeps audiences leaning forward, wondering what audacious turn he'll take next. Whether he's dissecting cultural differences between his two homelands or finding the absurd in everyday life, Mike Bodz delivers comedy that hits hard and leaves you wanting more.
Milo Edwards
Cambridge Footlights · writes for Mock the Week
Picture this: a Cambridge Footlights graduate so dedicated to comedy he moved to Moscow in 2015 and learned to do stand-up in Russian. On actual Russian television. Milo Edwards isn't your average circuit act—he's a podcasting powerhouse (co-hosting the wildly popular Trashfuture, Masters of Our Domain, and Glue Factory), a writer's room veteran (penning gags for Mock the Week, The News Quiz, and Late Night Mash), and an Edinburgh Fringe stalwart who won Best Poster in 2022 and earned back-to-back Best Show nominations at Leicester Comedy Festival. Born in Essex in 1993, this critically-acclaimed comedian has been described by Chortle as "one of the UK's smartest, most vital stand-ups"—high praise that's entirely justified when you catch his razor-sharp material on class, politics, and the absurdities of modern Britain. A favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024, Milo has graced our stages with his signature blend of incisive wit and warm storytelling, proving that intelligence and accessibility aren't mutually exclusive. His 2022 special Voicemail is streaming on YouTube, his contributions to Private Eye and The New Statesman keep readers laughing, and his current Decade tour celebrates ten years of making audiences think as much as they guffaw. Simply put: unmissable.
Monica Hsueh
BBC New Comedy semi-finalist · millions of views
Picture a whirlwind of razor-sharp wit wrapped in an irresistible 'big Asian sister' energy—that's the Monica Hsueh experience. This Taiwanese-British powerhouse transforms migration, identity, and messy life moments into gut-busting gold with her bold bravado and fearless storytelling. A semi-finalist at BBC New Comedy Awards 2025 and finalist for both British Comedian of the Year and Leicester Square Theatre New Comedian, Monica's offbeat punchy style has won hearts across the UK's finest stages. Moving from Taiwan to the UK at just 13 with limited English, she discovered laughter as the bridge between cultures—a discovery that evolved from an open-mic dare into a dynamic stage presence. Now she commands rooms from The Comedy Store to The Bill Murray Angel with self-deprecating charm and empowering life tips that resonate with women and the LGBTQ+ community while delighting everyone else too. Her Strong Woman sketch series has racked up millions of views online, while her solo show How to Be a Strong Woman in One Hour has been packing out The Coach House Piccadilly since July 2025, extended twice by popular demand. Featured on BBC and TEDx, with appearances on Netflix, AppleTV, and Disney+, this favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024 brings infectious energy, dating disasters, and sisterly wisdom to every performance.
Nancy MacDonald
'One of UK comedy's strongest voices' · LAFTALENZ founder
She strides on stage like she owns the place—because let's be honest, she probably does. Nancy MacDonald is a Scottish-Ugandan force of nature who brings fearless, unapologetically fun comedy to every room she enters. Raised in East London and now based in South East, this self-proclaimed "plus-size Dis-knee princess" has quickly become one of the strongest voices in UK comedy with her bold wit, raw honesty, and razor-sharp storytelling that cuts right to the heart of modern life. When she's not tearing up stages across London, Nancy is busy building the comedy scene from the ground up as creator of LAFTALENZ and The Takeover Comedy, platforms championing diverse voices and giving audiences the kind of high-energy nights they'll be talking about for weeks. She's graced the stage at Mo Gilligan's Brunch Show at Up The Creek and brought her no-holds-barred style to comedy clubs from Bethnal Green to Southampton, plus headlining spots at Top Secret Comedy Club on New Year's Day 2026. A favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024, Nancy delivers the kind of set that leaves you breathless from laughing, thinking, and hungry for more—proving night after night why she's absolutely unmissable.
Nicole Harris
First woman to win Jewish Comedian of the Year
Imagine a comedian who's like opening a Kinder Egg—you never quite know what you'll get, but it's guaranteed to be a delightful surprise. That's Nicole Harris, the London-based stand-up who's been described as "a force of nature" by Arthur Smith and praised by the Jewish Chronicle for taking laughter to the next level. With her razor-sharp wit and ability to think on her feet, Nicole specialises in a unique blend of improvised chaos and finely tuned written material that keeps audiences guessing and guffawing in equal measure. She made history in 2016 as the first woman to win Jewish Comedian of the Year, then went on to become a finalist in the New Act of The Year Showcase at the Hackney Empire in 2019. That same year she hosted the Edinburgh Fringe AAA Stand Up Late Show at the Gilded Balloon, and she's since returned to the Fringe with solo shows in 2021, 2022, and 2024. You might have heard her on BBC Radio 4 Extra, or caught her creating electric energy at comedy clubs across the country. A favourite at venues from Soho to Kings Cross, she's now bringing her quirky, slightly naughty, utterly unforgettable act to the Rum Monkey Comedy Club stage, where her improvisational brilliance fits right in with the Comedy Boat's reputation for unpredictable, world-class comedy.
Oliver Moore
Hastings Fringe Newcomer of the Year · Kings College grad
Picture a politics student who swapped manifestos for mic stands, and you've got Oliver Moore—a sharp, witty force tearing through the London comedy circuit with routines that blend millennial therapy culture with biting social observation. At just 22, this Kings College London graduate has already scooped the Hastings Fringe Newcomer of the Year 2025 (The Norman Award) and reached the finals of the prestigious Chortle Student Comedy Awards 2024, proving that behind the self-deprecating tales of ADHD, autism, and questionable Harry Potter walking tours lies a comedian who knows exactly what he's doing. Described by Chortle as an "idiot savant," Oliver's act thrives on uncomfortable truths delivered with infectious energy—whether he's unpacking his generation's relationship with being "not stupid" or skewering the absurdities of modern life with his signature blend of intelligence and chaos. A favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024, he's become a regular fixture at venues across the capital, from Big Belly to Angel Comedy and Portobello, bringing his fresh, original voice to stages that can't get enough of him. With shows like "0 to 1 mph in Under 60 Minutes" and a 2026 nomination for Leicester Mercury Comedian of the Year, this rising star is building momentum faster than you can say "therapy session." Catch him live and discover why everyone's talking about Oliver Moore.
Ollie Reyhart
NYC-forged edge · The Blackout winner
Imagine a comic who launched their career in the New York City pressure cooker before bringing that Atlantic-tested edge back to London—that's the journey that forged Ollie Reyhart's razor-sharp wit and storytelling prowess. With observational humour that hits like a perfectly timed punchline and a touch of the absurd that keeps audiences delightfully off-balance, Ollie's a master at turning everyday experiences into comedy gold.
Since bursting onto the scene in 2022, they've racked up multiple Best Act wins at Comedy Virgins and conquered The Blackout at Up The Creek—no small feat in the unforgiving world of gong shows. When they're not destroying rooms across London at venues like Vauxhall Comedy Club and Hot Water, Ollie co-hosts The Nameless Podcast, bringing that same fearless energy to the airwaves.
A favourite on the Comedy Boat since making waves at Rum Monkey, Ollie delivers sets that blend personal anecdotes with keen social observations, all wrapped in a performance style that's equal parts confident and charismatic. Represented by Katie Threlfall Associates for TV and film work, this transatlantic talent has proven they can make any crowd laugh—whether in a Brooklyn basement or aboard our beloved barge in Battersea.
Otter Lee
As seen on Colbert's Tooning Out the News
With the kind of stage presence that makes Disney villains jealous and queer icons swoon, this NYC-born comedian has been making audiences laugh from Brooklyn to Battersea. As a Chinese-American queer artist who literally wept outside Kensington Palace at age four over Princess Diana's death (while dad took photos and laughed), they've transformed childhood trauma into comedy gold. Their Emmy-nominated voice work on Stephen Colbert's "Tooning Out the News" and Comedy Central's "Fairview" proved they could bring the funny to cartoons, but it's their live stand-up that really sparkles—complete with Disney parodies, musical comedy numbers, and the occasional story about a pet tadpole. After co-producing NYC's First Asian Comedy Festival in 2020 and making waves at the Edinburgh Fringe 2024 with their debut solo show "Princess Syndrome," they've become a favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024, bringing their sassy mix of storytelling, stand-up, and show tunes to delighted Rum Monkey audiences. Whether they're dissecting racism in the gay community or belting out reworked lyrics from "The Little Mermaid," they remind us that sometimes you end up a little more Camilla than Diana—and that's perfectly fabulous.
Prateek Kohli
West End New Act runner-up · King Gong winner
Watching Prateek Kohli work a room is like witnessing a masterclass in cultural translation—he mines the absurdities of three continents with the precision of a political satirist and the warmth of your funniest mate at the pub. Having started his comedy journey in California before relocating to London in 2022, this Indian comic has quickly become one of the circuit's most exciting rising talents, dissecting everything from historical quirks to the madness of modern immigration with sharp wit and irresistible charm.
Prateek's CV already reads like a greatest hits album: runner-up for West End New Act of the Year 2024, shortlisted for the BBC New Comedy Award, finalist for the Komedia New Comedy Award, and King Gong winner at the legendary Comedy Store. He's commanded stages at Up the Creek, graced the Backyard Comedy Club, and is one half of the sold-out split bill show Two and a Half Indians. His solo show "Denial" has earned rave reviews across the fringe circuit, with the Express & Star praising his "endearing self-effacing humour laced with sharp insights."
A favourite on the Comedy Boat scene, Prateek brings observational brilliance wrapped in infectious energy—proof that there really is so much to do in London, especially when he's on stage.
Radu Isac
Opened for Louis CK & Jim Gaffigan · Romania's comedian
Dark humour with a sugar coating—that's what you get when Radu Isac steps on stage. This Romanian comedian brings venomous wit wrapped in glittery charm, making audiences laugh when they know they probably shouldn't. Since starting his stand-up journey in Bucharest in 2006, Radu earned the title of Romania's "comedians' comedian" before taking the brave leap to London in 2015, where he had to start all over again on the open mic circuit.
But this is a comedian who knows how to rise. Within two years of arriving in the UK, Radu became a finalist in the English Comedian of the Year competition in 2017, proving his intelligently subversive comedy translates brilliantly across borders. He's taken solo shows to the Edinburgh Fringe multiple times, including "Good Excuses for Sociopaths" and "Pandemic," and released his comedy special "Keep Coughing" which found hilarity in one of humanity's strangest moments. He's appeared on BBC, Channel 4, and Comedy Central, and even opened for comedy heavyweights like Louis CK and Jim Gaffigan.
A favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024, Radu co-founded the East European Comedy Festival in 2018, championing immigrant voices in the UK scene. With his playful, idiosyncratic style—described by Chortle as "simultaneously sweet and dark"—Radu Isac delivers comedy that's delightfully uncomfortable in all the right ways.
Raj Poojara
BBC New Comedy finalist · banker turned comic
Picture this: a former Private Banker who traded spreadsheets for stage lights and never looked back. Raj Poojara burst onto London's comedy scene with such confidence that his second-ever gig was opening for a sold-out theatre—talk about pressure! Since then, this London-born comic has been absolutely tearing up the circuit, racking up more finalist badges than you can shake a microphone at.
A BBC New Comedy Awards regional finalist and So You Think You're Funny? semi-finalist, Raj has earned his stripes supporting the likes of Jamali Maddix, Milton Jones, and Laura Smyth on tour. His razor-sharp observations about his Indian upbringing, family expectations, and the wild career pivot that made his parents question everything land with audiences night after night. When he's not on stage, you'll find him co-hosting the hit podcast 'The Word on The Streets' or creating content that's amassed him over 15,000 Instagram followers.
A favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024, Raj brings that perfect blend of controlled delivery and unexpected punchlines that makes every set feel like catching lightning in a bottle. Whether he's unpacking the pressure of being the family's "last hope" or diving into road rage therapy, this rising star knows exactly how to work a room.
Ridwan Hussain
Turns insecurities into the sharpest punchlines
There's something quietly brilliant about watching someone turn their deepest insecurities into the sharpest punchlines, and that's exactly what Ridwan Hussain does with effortless precision. This London-based comedian has a gift for wrong-footing rooms with material that builds quietly before landing devastatingly hard, blending vulnerability with wit in a way that makes audiences laugh at the kind of self-awareness most people keep locked away.
Since bursting onto the scene, Ridwan has racked up an impressive collection of accolades: winning Hoots Act of the Year 2023, claiming victory at Smok'd Crack New Comedian of the Year, and earning a BBC New Comedy Award nomination. He sailed through to become a Spirit of Comedy Grand Finalist in 2025 and reached the final of Comedy Knockout: Champion Of Champions, with Chortle praising his "delightfully funny" yet "brutally funny" approach. A star of Bound & Gagged's AAA Stand-Up Show and a Beat The Blackout champion at Up The Creek, he's become a firm favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024, bringing his unique blend of smart-silly storytelling and mean-but-magnificent observations to our Battersea Barge. With quick wit, impeccable timing, and that infectious energy, Ridwan is absolutely one to watch.
Rob Moriarty
King Gong winner · Irish charm and chaos
There's something deliciously dangerous about watching this Irish firecracker tear through his material—equal parts charm and chaos, with a wicked glint that promises things are about to get wonderfully uncomfortable. Rob Moriarty doesn't just perform comedy; he weaponizes his life as a "mentally ill homosexual" (his words, not ours) into razor-sharp observations that'll have you laughing through your fingers.
Since conquering Berlin with the New Stand Up Award in 2022, Rob's been leaving scorched earth across Europe's comedy circuit. He's demolished London's most notorious gong shows—including the legendary King Gong at The Comedy Store—and reached the final of Leicester Square New Comedian of the Year 2024. When he's not opening for heavyweights like Reginald D Hunter or selling out his debut show "Sick in the Head," you'll find him bringing his unapologetic, dark brilliance to our stages, where he's become a proper favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024.
With his CHIEFCAST podcast gaining cult status and a TikTok following that's approaching 2 million likes, Rob's the kind of comic who makes you wonder whether you should be laughing this hard at things this twisted. Spoiler: you absolutely should.
"The future of comedy. God help us!" – David McSavage
Roman Harris
New Comedian of the Year 2025 · ex-firefighter
After fifteen years battling blazes with the London Fire Brigade, this British-Caribbean comic swapped the hose for the mic—and the comedy world hasn't stopped buzzing. With a reputation for being devastatingly nice but wickedly clever, Roman Harris delivers observational, anecdotal sets that crackle with cheeky devilment and lived-in wisdom. Born and raised in London to Jamaican and Guyanese parents, he grew up around criminals but chose the firestation instead—then realised stand-up was even scarier. Since launching his comedy journey in 2019, he's racked up an enviable trophy cabinet: Leicester Square Theatre New Comedian of the Year 2025, third place in the Dutch Barn Spirit of Comedy, NATYS 2022 Runner Up, and shortlisted for the BBC New Comedy Awards. He's even a recurring face on ITV's Supermarket Sweep, proving his timing works on telly as well as on stage. A favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024, Roman brings that hugely appealing vibe—affable, vibrant, and sharp as a knife—whether he's unpacking relationships, random life chaos, or simply being brilliant. Chortle says he's "got the goods." We say he's got the lot.
Ross Smith
As seen on Slow Horses (Apple TV+) · viral headline-maker
Some people stumble into viral fame by design, but Ross Smith did it by accidentally stealing someone else's holiday. Back in 2018, a message meant for another Ross Smith led him to jet off with complete strangers, and the ensuing international headlines became the heart of his debut Edinburgh show, I Am Ross Smith. That knack for turning life's absurdities into laugh-out-loud moments has made him one of London's most reliable club comics and MCs, with the kind of room-reading ability that feels like witchcraft.
His sophomore hour, Crying Shame, was a sellout triumph at the Fringe, landing two spots in Dave's Top Ten Jokes of 2019. Joel Dommett calls him "one of my favourite new acts," while Nish Kumar praised his "hilarious and original" style—though Nish admits that quote itself is neither. You might've spotted Ross on screen in Slow Horses (Apple TV+) or Sick of It (Sky One), but he's at his sharpest live, wielding quick wit and storytelling that feels effortless even when it's razor-sharp.
A favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024, Ross brings that same assured, commanding presence whether he's headlining or hosting. Represented by Gag Reflex Management, he's the sort of comic who makes every gig feel like you're in on the joke.
Sam Coade
Award-winning offbeat gags · jazz pianist
Picture a comedian so tall he might need planning permission, armed with the kind of offbeat gags that stick in your brain like catchy jazz riffs—which makes sense, because this award-winning comic also tickles the ivories in his jazz outfit Moody But Nice. Sam Coade has been delighting audiences at The Rum Monkey Comedy Club's legendary Comedy Boat since 2024, bringing his uniquely whimsical brand of stand-up to Battersea Barge with material the Evening Standard called "Fantastic."
With over 10 million views online and a resume that includes writing for BBC Radio 4's DMs Are Open and BBC Scotland's Breaking The News, Sam's sharp, original comedy has earned him runner-up at West End New Act of the Year and semi-final spots at So You Think You're Funny?, Komedia New Act, and Leicester Square New Comedian. He's been shortlisted for the prestigious Pleasance Reserve and reached the final of Hastings Fringe New Comedian, all while co-running the award-winning Camden gig Comedy In Your Eye.
Whether he's pondering why eggs get arrested or delivering what critics call "witty and unusual" observations, Sam's warm stage presence and gift for the absurd make him one of the brightest new voices on the circuit.
Sam Picone
Writes for BBC & Channel 4 · tens of millions of views
Picture a comic who can make millions laugh online but still turns up to packed basement rooms with the same dry precision that made Mo Gilligan call him "a natural on stage." That's Sam Picone—a London-based comedian whose carefully measured delivery and astute observations have been turning heads across the circuit for over five years.
With writing credits spanning the BBC's The News Quiz and Channel 4's The Big Narstie Show, Sam knows how to craft a joke that lands. His viral sketches have racked up tens of millions of views, but it's his live act—sharp, observational, and dripping with clever wit—that's cemented his reputation at clubs like The Comedy Store, Backyard Comedy Club, and Up The Creek. He dissects modern British life with an edge of darkness wrapped in innate charm, tackling everything from identity to relationships with irreverent twists.
Sam's also the creator of The List, a YouTube series where his commentary cuts through the noise with surgical precision. A runner-up at Bath Comedy Festival New Act Competition 2023, he's been a favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024, bringing his effortlessly slick timing to Battersea Barge whenever he steps aboard. Expect astute takes, knowing smirks, and comedy that sticks.
Samira Banks
Won So You Think You're Funny? within six months
Sharp, deadpan, and multilingual with a gift for punchlines that hit like a plot twist—this is the comedian who won So You Think You're Funny? within six months of her first-ever gig. Samira Banks brings Middle Eastern heritage and a razor-sharp perspective to every stage she graces, and she's been a favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024, lighting up our Battersea Barge with her brilliantly wry observations.
Born to Iranian refugees, Samira's comedy weaves cultural insights with devastatingly clever wordplay, all delivered with the kind of deadpan timing that makes audiences lean in before the laugh hits them sideways. Since her 2023 So You Think You're Funny? win, she's been unstoppable: opening for Stephen Merchant, supporting Michael Odewale and Eshaan Akbar on tour, and even writing for BBC Radio 4's The News Quiz. She's a finalist for the Sean Lock Awards and Leicester Square New Comedian of the Year, appeared on the BBC New Comedy Awards, and performed at festivals from Kilkenny to Latitude.
Fluent in Spanish, German, and Persian, Samira brings a truly global perspective to her sets, though her comedy is unmistakably rooted in the absurdities of modern Britain. Represented by Blue Book Artist Management, she's one to watch—sharp, surprising, and absolutely unmissable.
Sarah Iles
A decade on the circuit · tarot-reading firecracker
Picture this: a South London firecracker who can read your tarot cards AND deliver a punchline that'll have you howling into your pint. That's Sarah Iles—silly, sharp, and gloriously unfiltered. With over a decade on the circuit, she's mastered the art of turning everyday disasters into comedy gold, whether she's MC-ing a raucous night or middle-spotting alongside the big names. She's the kind of comic who disarms you with her bubbly energy, then hits you with observations so astute you'll be laughing and nodding in equal measure. A favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024, Sarah's become synonymous with those unforgettable Rum Monkey nights—the ones where the barge rocks and the audience is in stitches.
Her Edinburgh Fringe debut "The Silly Iles" showcased her knack for self-deprecating storytelling, while her touring show "Tarot, Nice to Meet You" blends mysticism with mischief in the most delightful way. She's been a finalist at Brighton Fringe's Best New Act, and critics have raved about her ability to leave rooms "quaking with laughter." Chortle says she "never fails to deliver," and we couldn't agree more. Expect zinging one-liners, warm chaos, and a performer who treats every gig like a party you're lucky to be invited to.
Stella Graham
Nine Fringe hours · BBC Radio 4 Newsjack writer
Walking into a room with the confidence of someone who's absolutely going to steal the show, Stella Graham turns every stage into her personal playground—shameless, charmingly aggressive, and deliciously unladylike. This half Sri Lankan powerhouse from Coventry has conquered comedy circuits from LA's Comedy Store to the Adelaide and Perth Fringes, taking nine hour-long shows to Edinburgh, Brighton, and Leicester festivals along the way. The Skinny had it right when they told TV executives to drop everything and see her NOW.
A natural born funny woman, Stella's slick one-liners subvert expectations with surgical precision, whether she's performing at London's top clubs like Banana Cabaret, Covent Garden Comedy Club, and Backyard, or firing off sketches for BBC Radio 4's Newsjack. She's not just a comic—she's a writer, actor, MC extraordinaire, and the genius behind "Angry Workouts" videos that'll have you laughing through the burn. Her New Zealand radio credentials and international festival pedigree bring global flair to every set, while her shows "Sneaky Little Bitch" and "Loyal Family" showcase storytelling that hits hard and fast. A favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024, Stella delivers high-octane performances that guarantee one thing: you'll remember her name.
Tevin Everett
Ex-Navy intelligence · New Comedian of the Year finalist
From declassifying military secrets to declassifying punchlines, this spy-turned-standup brings the kind of charm offensive usually reserved for international diplomacy. A former Navy intelligence specialist from Delaware, Tevin swapped the Pentagon for the punchline and hasn't looked back—well, except to mine his military days for material that's classified as hilarious.
After honing his storytelling chops as a film and TV writer in Los Angeles, he landed in London and immediately conquered the capital's comedy circuit with American swagger and British sensibility. In 2024 alone, he stormed to the finals of Leicester Square Theatre's New Comedian of the Year, won the legendary Big Belly Ding Dong gong competition, and delivered a knockout performance at The Blackout at Up The Creek. He's been a favourite on the Rum Monkey Comedy Boat since diving into London's scene, bringing high-energy sets that blend razor-sharp observation with the kind of intelligence you'd expect from someone who once handled state secrets.
When he's not gigging across the capital, he runs his own night, Secretly Pissed, and recently completed the 2025 Armed Forces Tour, earning rave reviews as "a hilariously charismatic, tightly structured rollercoaster." This is comedy with clearance level: unmissable.
Tom Alban
High-energy storytelling · Barcelona to Dubai
Like a big talented labrador crashing onto the stage with unstoppable enthusiasm, this Norwich comic has been infecting comedy nights across the UK and beyond since 2018. With energy that's been described as "the comedy equivalent to Thor's hammer piercing the earth's atmosphere," he combines relatable storytelling with ridiculous anecdotes and plenty of crowd work, often finishing sets with a musical flourish that leaves audiences grinning ear to ear. His quick wit and warm stage presence have made him a regular at top venues including Backyard Comedy Club, Just The Tonic, Covent Garden Comedy Club, and Jongleurs, while his international performances have taken him to Barcelona's Comedy Clubhouse, Taipei's Two Three Comedy Club, and Dubai's Zabeel Theatre. A favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024, he's the kind of performer who makes every show feel like a party—whether he's working the room with razor-sharp crowd work or turning a traditional Haka into a sassy, high-camp battle cry. Represented by Mustard Talent Agency, this high-octane storyteller brings the same infectious energy week in, week out, proving why he's become one of the brightest talents from East Anglia's comedy scene.
Tom Houghton
The posh comic who grew up in the Tower of London
Picture a chap who's lived in the actual Tower of London—not as a prisoner, but because his dad was only the head of the entire UK Armed Forces. That's the world of Tom Houghton, the delightfully posh comedian who's made a career out of making the seemingly unrelatable utterly hilarious.
From boarding school at age six to barracks around the globe, Tom's ultra-privileged upbringing could've gone either way, but fortunately for us, he chose comedy. After cutting his teeth with improv legends The Noise Next Door, he struck out solo in 2016 and hasn't looked back. His roguish tales and cheeky songs have taken him on sold-out international tours, supporting Milton Jones twice, and even appearing on Netflix's The Circle Season 5.
But it's online where Tom truly exploded—his viral videos have racked up over 8.4 million TikTok likes, asking the nation's most important questions: "Do you ski?" and "Do you scuba?" He's graced Comedy Central, hosted Very British Problems, and proved that whether you're upper crust or decidedly not, a great gag is a great gag. A rising star on the Comedy Boat since 2024, Tom brings warmth, wit, and just the right amount of aristocratic absurdity to every performance.
Usif Musa
4x Up the Creek Blackout winner · Iraqi-British swagger
When this Iraqi British comic steps on stage with his calm, almost effortless swagger, you'd never guess he spent his pandemic retaking a year of uni because he got addicted to chess. But that's the delicious unpredictability of Usif Musa—a storyteller who turned growing up bilingual between English and Arabic, bouncing from the UK to Lebanon and back, into comedy gold that audiences can't get enough of.
A four-time champion of the notoriously brutal Up the Creek Blackout gong show, Usif has proved he can win over even the toughest crowds with his endearing, neurotic charm and razor-sharp punchlines. He's also conquered the Ding Dong Gong Show at Vauxhall Comedy Club and reached the semi-finals of the Chortle Student Comedy Awards in 2022, all while juggling law school and a retail job. His material—from friends' dads with two wives to his own weird journey from F1 obsession to stand-up—lands with the kind of charisma that makes every story feel like you're hearing it from your funniest mate.
A favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024, Usif brings that perfect mix of warmth and chaos we live for.
Victor Daniel
Two decades on the circuit · BBC Three writer
Picture this: a law graduate who stood outside The Comedy Store until they let him in, then never left the circuit. That's the kind of persistence that's made Victor Daniel one of London's most talked-about comics for over two decades. Since his accidental debut on The Richard Blackwood Show in 1999—where he improvised his entire set—this Stratford-based Nigerian comedian has been delivering non-stop, hard-hitting comedy that's earned him the nickname "the UK's answer to Dave Chappelle."
Victor's pen is as sharp as his stage presence. He's written for BBC Three's Gina Yashere Show and Angie Le Mar's Big Sister, while creating, writing, and directing The United Colours of Comedy for Hackney Empire—developed by the BBC New Comedy Unit. His stand-up has graced The Comedy Store, Top Secret, and sold-out runs at Theatre Royal Stratford East, plus a memorable night on the Rum Monkey Comedy Boat where his fearless crowd work had the whole barge rocking. He's been a semi-finalist for BBC Comedy New Talent and Channel 4's So You Think You're Funny.
During lockdown, he pivoted brilliantly, releasing daily comedy videos that exploded his profile. Now he's touring with Axel Blake's In Style show, bringing relentless energy and razor-sharp observations to stages across the UK. Whether dissecting everyday absurdities or cultural commentary, Victor guarantees a night you won't forget.
Vinny Shiu
Chortle Hotshot 2025 · musical identity-crisis gold
With a guitar in one hand and a mic in the other, this Portsmouth-raised dynamo turns identity crises into singalongs and family drama into absolute gold. Growing up as part of the only East Asian family in his neighbourhood, Vinny Shiu crafts comedy that's equal parts sharp observation and musical mayhem, blending stories of traditional parenting, dating disasters, and cultural whiplash into sets that are as immersive as they are hilarious. Named a Chortle Hotshot for 2025 and already a winner of Leicester Comedy Festival's Circuit Breaker award and Southampton Comedian of the Year 2023, this London-based act is storming his way through the UK circuit. He's snagged finalist spots at British Comedian of The Year 2024 and the Musical Comedy Awards 2025, appeared on the BBC New Comedy Awards, and graced stages from The Comedy Store to Up The Creek. Currently MC-ing his own night, Oops Comedy in Tooting, Vinny's also gearing up for his Edinburgh Fringe debut with Asian Or British?, a show dissecting what it means to be stuck between two worlds. A favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024, his physical, dynamic style guarantees you'll leave singing his punchlines all the way home.
Vitaly Volkov
King Gong winner (London & Manchester) · deadpan master
Deadpan delivery meets nuclear-grade wit in this Russian comic who's mastered the art of catching audiences completely off-guard. With a measured pace that draws you into his savvy, offbeat world, this London-based performer has turned "Cold War Comedy" into something far warmer—though no less deadly funny.
The accolades speak volumes: King Gong victories at both The Comedy Store London and Manchester, three wins at Up The Creek's notorious Blackout, and Rudi Lickwood's 5 Minutes To Shine crown in 2019. Semi-final appearances at Amused Moose National New Comic Award, So You Think You're Funny?, and Up The Creek's One To Watch that same year proved this wasn't a flash in the pan but a genuine force on the circuit.
Steve Bennett from Chortle nailed it when he described those smart tags and punchlines that land with surgical precision, holding attention with an almost hypnotic rhythm. The self-deprecating running gag about "undermining Western democracy" is just window dressing for genuinely clever material that transcends borders.
A favourite on the Rum Monkey Comedy Boat since 2024, this act has delivered three brilliant sets that prove comedy doesn't need translation—just impeccable timing and a perspective that's uniquely, hilariously his own.
Will Hannigan
Opened for Shane Gillis & Bobby Lee · JFL NorthWest
Picture this: a guy who spent nearly a decade touring the frozen tundras of Canada, charming crowds from Edmonton to Vancouver, suddenly finds himself navigating the quirks of British weather and the peculiar rituals of London life. That's Will Hannigan—a Canadian comic with a conversational presence that feels like catching up with your funniest mate over a pint, except he's the one doing all the hilarious talking.
Since starting comedy at 18, Will's built a career that's taken him from winning YEG's Funniest Person to opening for heavyweight acts like Shane Gillis and Bobby Lee. He's graced stages at Just For Laughs NorthWest and the Grindstone Comedy Festival, and his albums have bounced across North America on satellite radio. In August 2023, he packed up his life and landed in London, where he's been making waves ever since—a favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024, bringing his sharp observational humour to both Battersea and Soho.
Will's material digs into family dynamics, relationships, and his honest journey through alcoholism and sobriety, all delivered with an energy that's powerful yet effortlessly conversational. Whether he's riffing on Christian hockey camps or explaining why his sister might actually be a witch, Will's got the kind of comedy that makes you laugh and think in equal measure.
Zoe Brownstone
Toronto-born, Mae Martin-endorsed romantic chaos
Ever wondered what happens when a hopeless romantic armed with 90s rom-com fantasies meets the brutal realities of bilingual break-ups and dating app culture? Enter the delightfully chaotic world of this Toronto-born comic who's been slaying London's circuit with her razor-sharp wit and heartfelt storytelling.
Heralded as an 'incredible joke writer' by fellow Canadian Mae Martin, this Jewish comedian brings punchy comic rhythms and authentic charm to every stage she graces. She made her Edinburgh Fringe debut in 2024 with A Bite Of Yours at Pleasance Courtyard, earning features in The Telegraph's funniest jokes of the Fringe and a Chortle review praising her ability to crash straight into stories without meaningless pleasantries. A favourite on the Comedy Boat since 2024, she's also conquered stages from Angel Comedy to The Bill Murray, and has become one of London's fastest rising comics.
Her comedy CV sparkles with credentials: featured performer at Boom Chicago Comedy Festival 2021/22, runner-up in the OF Comedy Competition, and appearances on SiriusXM and iHeartRadio. She's released her debut comedy special Pride & Premises and her first album, proving she's not just talk—though her talk about step-parenthood, deportation, and Dutch ex-boyfriends is absolutely brilliant.
Over 100 comedians cross our stages every year — from TV names trying new material to the best new acts in the country. Line-ups are announced close to each show, and every single one is hosted by a pro.
The only way to meet them?
Come to a show. Midweek and Sundays on the Boat, Fridays in Soho.