Comedy: Stand Up For The Weekend with ERICH McELROY and GUESTS
2026-02-07 20:00 - 22:30 UTC | Hen & Chicken Studio
Stand Up For The Weekend with Erich McElroy featuring Andy Field & Meryl O’Rourke
Stand Up For The Weekend is our weekly flagship comedy show featuring top circuit headliners and guest acts plus incredibly funny and engaging comperes who host the entire show. A choice of table seats, reserved row seats and unreserved row seats are available to book online.
Headliner: ERICH McELROY

Originally from Seattle, Erich McElroy moved to the UK in 2000 and in 2007 collected his British passport. After that he knew he had to start doing stand-up. Erich offers an hilarious and insightful take on the life in the UK through the (somewhat) sober eyes of an American and has delighted audiences up and down the country for many years. While his six full Edinburgh shows have taken a turn for the political (“This is political stand-up at its best.” BroadwayBaby) it’s his “modest, slightly bookish, charm and genuine affection for the UK” (Chortle) that makes him stand out.

Erich has appeared on Scotland’s foremost BBC radio topical show “Breaking the News” as well as providing humorous political commentary on places such as the BBC, Sky, Newsnight and on his own podcast American Exchange.

“Sincerity and sharp wit leaving you with a hopeful beam on your face and desperately wanting more” EdFringe Review

Music: Marginal Gains
2026-02-07 20:00 - 23:00 | Chicken Shed
Marginal Gains return for another night of 90s and 00s grunge and britpop BANGERS

Theatre: Wednesday Night Improv: February Triple Bill
2026-02-11 19:30 - 21:45 | Chicken Shed
Wednesday Night Improv’s monthly show continues with a triple bill packed with quick wit, bold characters, and stories made up on the spot.
Join us for a midweek comedy boost featuring three of Bristol’s sharpest improv acts – each one creating a brand-new show right before your eyes, all inspired by audience suggestions.
[1] G&T PRESENT: FUNK CAKE
Welcome to the Funk Café. Two improvisers order tea and coffee. The improvisers are also given a slice of Funk Cake. Neither of the improvisers know ahead of time what emotions are baked into their delicious treats. But the only way out of those emotions is to eat the entire piece of cake before them. Every. Last. Crumb. Only then can their emotional state shift and change. Only then can they resolve their spirit.
Experienced players Gemma Revell and Tara Judah must work together to get through some of the most challenging aspects of human experience, no matter how bitter, sweet, sour or saccharine the emotions they’re given. Taking audience suggestions for their emotional states, G&T cannot leave the Funk Café until every bite of their funk cakes are eaten and their emotional states are fully resolved.
[2] BEANSVILLE PRESENTS: THE WORKPLACE
It’s another day at the office… the shop… the factory… or maybe even that weird place you once worked. You know the one. With all of the romances, rivalries, politics and performance issues you’d expect, all made up on the spot in this improvised workplace comedy. Watch the pilot episode of a wholly improvised workplace comedy based on your suggestions.
[3] PRESSURE COOKER: THE IMPROVISED RESTAURANT SHOW
Pressure Cooker whisks you into a fictional restaurant where a dynamic ensemble brings the chefs, customers, and kitchen chaos to life. Using your stories as ingredients, our performers cook up hilarious, unpredictable scenes on the spot. From meltdowns to menu mayhem, it’s comedy served hot and fast.
Winners of the 2025 Bristol Improv Gauntlet | “Pure Comedic Alchemy” — Bristol 24/7
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Whether you’re a seasoned comedy fan or just curious about what happens when performers make it all up as they go, this is a perfect night to dive into Bristol’s thriving improv scene. Expect laughter, surprises, and something completely different – every single time.
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Part of the Wednesday Night Improv series – We’re on the second Wednesday of every month! Details here: https://linktr.ee/wednightimprov

Jazz: Sam Crockatt Quartet
2026-02-12 20:00 - 22:30 | Chicken Shed
Sam Crockatt – tenor sax, Dale Hambridge – piano, Henrik Jensen – bass, Andy Hague – drums
Saxophonist Sam Crockatt returns to the club to guest with a specially assembled house trio.
Having graduated from the Royal Academy, Sam Crockatt formed a band with Gwilym Simcock, Oli Hayhurst and Ben Reynolds leading to debut recording Howeird in 2008, which won a Parliamentary Jazz Award later that year. Flood Tide followed commended by The Guardian for it’s “Haunting lyricism”. Citing John Coltrane, Joe Henderson, Wayne Shorter, Sonny Rollins and Lee Konitz among his musical influences, Sam’s ability to marry his understanding of past masters with contemporary styles keeps him constantly in demand and has taken him to stages at the EFG London Jazz Festival, Cheltenham Jazz Festival, Kragujevac Jazz Festival (Serbia) and WDR Festival (Cologne). He also appears on albums by vocalist Kaz Simmons and pianist Sam Leak. In 2011 Sam and his young family moved to Mells in Somerset, the peal of the bells in his new home village inspiring the title track of most recent recording Mells Bells – the album has drawn praise from such eminent publications as The Guardian, Jazzwise Magazine, The Telegraph and The Financial Times.
“Mells Bells further burnishes Crockatt’s substantial reputation” – The Guardian.
A rare appearance at the club for pianist Dale Hambridge who is always super busy – he has previously played at the Hen and Chicken with Jingu Bang, and has long associations with performers such as Moonlight Saving Time, We Are Leif, Nick Malcolm and Lucy Moon.
Bassist Henrik Jensen moved from Denmark to London in 1997 and is a graduate of the Royal Academy. He has toured the world from Tokyo to Moscow with various modern jazz projects and also as part of the band for close harmony group The Puppini Sisters. Henrik has previously appeared at the club as band leader with his quartet Followed By Thirteen and trio featuring Danish pianist Esben Tjalve.
Although probably best known as a trumpeter Andy Hague has always played drums to an equal extent, and has backed many visiting guest players both at the Be-Bop Club and back in the day at the legendary Albert Inn.

Comedy: Russell Hicks- THIS TIME IT'S PERSONAL
2026-02-13 20:00 - 22:30 | Hen & Chicken Studio
American stand up comedian Russell Hicks is back on tour. It’s been a big year for Russell. He’s appeared in multiple feature films including Edgar Wright’s The Running Man (2025). You also may have seen his phenomenally successful ‘Dear Diary’ series on Instagram, which has gained millions of views. Last year’s show was about his life in the UK. This year is about…him. He’s back. And this time… it’s personal.

As seen on ITV, BBC, Channel 4, Prime Video, and Paramount Pictures. 2x Leicester Festival Best Show Nominee and Winner of the 2024 Prague Fringe Festival.

Comedy: Stand Up For The Weekend with Rachel Fairburn & Guests
2026-02-14 20:00 - 22:30
Stand Up For The Weekend Valentine’s Special with Rachel Fairburn Lindsey Santoro, Millie Malone & compere Jeremy Flynn

Stand Up For The Weekend is our flagship weekly comedy show featuring top circuit headliners and guest acts plus incredibly funny and engaging comperes who host the show. A choice of table seats, reserved row seats and unreserved row seats are available to book online.

Headliner: RACHEL FAIRBURN
Rachel Fairburn, a very established act on the UK stand-up circuit, is co-host and co-writer of the worldwide smash hit podcast All Killa No Filla. With a huge international following of over a quarter of a million listeners and growing, she has taken the podcast on several sell-out UK tours and a tour of the USA.

She has been a staple of the Edinburgh Fringe since 2014, with 6 critically acclaimed solo shows under her belt and featured in the ‘40 jokes of the fringe’ by the Daily Telegraph in 2018 and ‘Best Jokes from Edinburgh Fringe 2022’ in The Times.

Rachel appeared on BBC Presents: Stand Up For Live Comedy and Funny Festival Live, part of the BBC’s Festival of Funny. Her TV credit’s include Alan Davies: As Yet Untitled, Richard Osman’s House of Games and Russell Howard Hour Life Lessons.
“Very much the Rock’n’Roll star of British Comedy” Rolling Stone

PRE-SHOW DINING OFFER

Make a night of it. Enjoy dinner in our restaurant and skip the queue with reserved seating waiting for you at the show.

*Does not include a ticket to your chosen event. Please purchase separately. Please order promptly on arrival and allow 1 hour before doors open.
*Please note this offer is NOT available on certain dates in December.

Comedy: SAANIYA ABBAS - HELLARIOUS
2026-02-16 20:00 - 22:00 | Hen & Chicken Studio
Saaniya Abbas takes audiences on her most personal and side-splitting journey yet. After a hugely successful and critically acclaimed Edinburgh Fringe debut, she’s now bringing Hellarious across the country on her first UK tour.

With sharp insights and her signature feline mischief, Saaniya dives into the cultural taboos of divorce, the absurdity of internet fame, and her playful take on the concept of hell itself.

Tracing her evolution from a sheltered upbringing in a Muslim family to carving out her own path, Hellarious is a bold celebration of resilience, defiance, and self-discovery.

Music: My Girl The River & Serious Child
2026-02-19 19:30 - 22:30 | Hen & Chicken Studio
Two brilliant artists from the worlds of Americana and British folk-pop join forces with double bassist Joe Hughes in a celebration of what brings us together.
My Girl The River
Kris Wilkinson Hughes aka My Girl the River is a Louisiana native, now based in the UK after a decade of songwriting in Nashville. She has recently released her third album, Songs About Space, to strong critical acclaim.
As a performer, she is funny, warm and fearless with a sackful of hook laden songs and a voice of sweet sugared espresso. You might find yourself singing along or shedding a tear on your journey. Love, loss, Louisiana and Hot Chicken are just some of the stops along the way.
“A lovely mélange of Americana Roots music brings to mind Jason Isbell and Lucinda Williams…. exceptional songwriting” ★★★★ Paste Magazine
Serious Child
“I am about to utter the most fearsome words in folk,” says Alan Young, aka Serious Child. “This is a song about my grandmother … it’s a singalong” – Arts Republic
Serious Child hails from an old beech wood in Sussex, and draws from a range of acoustic influences from folk to pop to bossa nova. His pin-sharp lyrics explore the world around us with a poet’s ear for emotion and a comedian’s eye for everyday detail.
“writes about Britain today in a way that is almost tactile… with wit, style, intelligence and bags of melody” ★★★★★ Spiral Earth

Jazz: Joe Bradford Quintet
2026-02-19 20:00 - 22:30 | Chicken Shed
Joe Bradford – trombone, Greg Sterland – tenor sax, Tom Berge – piano, Chris Jones – bass, Paolo Adamo – drums
Trombonist Joe Bradford returns to the Be-Bop Club after his last sold out appearance. This time bringing another fantastic quintet, playing a collection of his own compositions along with some hard bop tunes. Harking back to the 50’s and 60’s of East Coast Jazz, the group will be bringing intensity, intricate arrangements and plenty of warm lyricism to match. Drawing inspiration from artists like the Jazz Messengers, Jackie Mclean and Kenny Dorham.
Trombonist Joe Bradford is a familiar face on the Bristol scene. Having grown up playing in local big bands, Joe studied in the USA for a year, under the tutelage of Steve Davis (Art Blakey, Chick Corea), and other greats. Since then Joe returned to Bristol as a professional player. You may have seen him playing with the Tammy Payne Quintet, the Jonny Bruce Organ Sextet, the Dockside Latin Orchestra or Soma Soma, and he is now also running a popular series of jazz workshops.
Saxophonist Greg Sterland is a graduate of the Royal Welsh College and has played at the club several times before both as a band leader and as part of the Jonny Bruce Organ Quartet. He cites a wide range of influences including Lester Young, Lars Gullin, Warne Marsh and Joe Lovano and is renowned for his adventurous but melodic style of improvisation.
Pianist Tom Berge is a graduate of Leeds College and is constantly busy gigging across the south west. With a growing reputation as a film composer, Tom wrote the music for Laura Tofarides’ award winning short animation Brain Space. Click for promo video.
Great to welcome back bassist Chris Jones – having been a mainstay of the Bristol music scene for several years, Chris moved up to Coventry in 2025. Chris studied jazz at the University of Exeter and the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire where he had the privilege of studying and playing with some great musicians such as John Taylor, Stan Sulzmann, Mark Hodgson and Dave Holland.
Drummer Paolo Adamo grew up in a tiny village in the southern Italian region of Molise. He attended the Thelonious Monk Jazz Academy of Campobasso for nine years, and for six years participated in Jazz Puzzle, an annual seminar in Belgium where he played with musicians from all over Europe, and which helped inform his decision at age 19 to relocate to Bristol to pursue a career in music.

Comedy: Robin Morgan LET'S OVERSHARE!
2026-02-20 20:00 - 22:30 | Hen & Chicken Studio
Join Robin Morgan for more of his trademark cheeky charm, more quick wit and even more hilarious oversharing, in this brand new stand-up show from the star of Mock The Week and Radio 4’s The News Quiz
We’re all talking to each other in an increasingly online world, is that really talking? Robin doesn’t think so.
So let’s get together, in real life, to watch Robin share some more outrageously honest stories.
It’s good to talk, but it’s even better to overshare.

Hold The Line -The Ultimate Toto Experience
2026-02-20 20:00 - 23:00 | Chicken Shed
Get ready for HOLD THE LINE, a brand-new tribute band bringing the legendary music of Toto to life!
This powerhouse 6-piece group delivers all the hits, spanning four decades of Toto’s iconic sound. Based in Cornwall, HOLD THE LINE combines top- tier musicianship and passion to recreate the magic of classics.
Expect electrifying renditions of your favourite Toto tracks like “Africa,” “Rosanna, and, of course, “Hold the Line”.
If you are a Toto fan, you won’t want to miss Hold the Line live. Buckle up for an unforgettable musical journey that will leave you singing along and wanting more.

Comedy: Stand Up For The Weekend with Matt Richardson and Guests
2026-02-21 20:00 - 22:30 | Hen & Chicken Studio
Stand Up For The Weekend with Matt Richardson featuring Harriet Dyer & Jack Campbell

Headliner: MATT RICHARDSON

Brash, slick and full of mildly laddish but self-deprecating stories, all delivered with an irresistible twinkle, Matt Richardson is a multi-award winning stand-up comedian and one of the most exciting names on the circuit currently rising through the ranks. Having started stand-up in 2009 at 18 years old, Matt became one of the youngest comedians on the circuit and soon made it through to the finals of two national stand-up competitions – the prestigious So You Think You’re Funny and the Chortle Student Comedy Award – He quickly established himself in all of the major comedy club chains in the UK and has gigged overseas on countless occasions.

Since then Matt has firmly established himself as one of the UK’s most exciting young performers and presenters – hosting the drive-time show on Virgin Radio.
“High wattage charisma from a talented young comic whose star is on the rise” The Guardian

PRE-SHOW DINING OFFER

Make a night of it. Enjoy dinner in our restaurant and skip the queue with reserved seating waiting for you at the show.

*Does not include a ticket to your chosen event. Please purchase separately. Please order promptly on arrival and allow 1 hour before doors open.

*Please note this offer is NOT available on certain dates

Comedy: Mike Rice - Crule Little Man
2026-02-22 20:00 - 22:30 | Hen & Chicken Studio
EXTRA SHOW ADDED DUE TO POPULAR DEMAND

There’s a cruelty to Mike Rice, a wickedness. In this show Mike talks about doing psychedelics with his brother, an entanglement with a Spanish Sausage Dog named Nino, and many other such rotten adventures.
“A phenomenal wordsmith, and world class raconteur” Chortle

Music: Peter Case, with Sid Griffin.
2026-02-23 20:00 - 22:30 | Hen & Chicken Studio
An evening with American song writing legends, Peter Case and Sid Griffin.
Peter Case is a three time Grammy nominated singer-songwriter from the USA who has a most impressive resume. He was the founder of the Nerves, the very first American indie band to put together a nationwide tour and one of the very first to release their own indie EP. He then was the founder and leader of the legendary Plimsouls, an incredibly influential L.A. rock and roll band which drew praise from everyone from Elvis Costello to Tom Petty to critics nationwide.
For the past thirty-some years Peter Case has been a solo troubadour in the great tradition of Dylan, Guthrie, and Pete Seeger. Early on he was produced by T-Bone Burnett and he’s played with and been championed by Roger McGuinn, Van Dyke Parks, Mike Campbell of Tom Petty’s Heartbreakers and many more. His latest album is The Midnight Broadcast and it just might be his very best album.
Sid Griffin is best known by his leadership of the Long Ryders, the founding fathers of alt-country and Americana. He is also the proud artist behind four well-received solo albums, was the leader of the wonderful ‘alt-bluegrass’ UK band, The Coal Porters, he was the Resident Musicologist on BBC 6 Music’s Radcliffe & Maconie radio show for over a decade and Sid has written four books. Sid’s most recent book, Million Dollar Bash: Bob Dylan, The Band, and the Basement Tapes, has been reissued twice and Sid did the liner notes for that collection of legendary Dylan tracks.

Talk: The History of Mermaids, Sea Spirits & Women
2026-02-24 19:30 - 21:30 | Hen & Chicken Studio
Dive beneath the surface of mermaid lore, tracing their long histories and what they may reveal about wider society. Followed by Q&A.

Since Hans Christian Andersen turned the mermaid into a romantic heroine, shimmering sea-maidens have swum through popular culture. “Mermaiding” has even become a verb. But where do these figures really come from, and why do they hold such power over us?

Theatre: Tales From The Wasteland
2026-02-25 20:00 - 22:00 | Hen & Chicken Studio
Tales From The Wasteland is an improvised post-apocalyptic adventure comedy. This twisted and talented cast of wastelanders will take a single suggestion from you and craft an entire narrative show with no pre-prepared characters, story or dialogue.
If the world was ending, what would be the one thing you’d want to survive? Join us as we explore a new world and find out what’s left over after Earth’s devastation. Expect raiders, mutants and violence over scarce resources in this absurd dark comedy inspired by classics of the genre such as Mad Max, The Last of Us and Fallout.
Warning: this show tends to have dark themes, violence and cannibalism. Seriously, cannibalism comes up way too often.
“I’m still reeling at how such an intricate tale was woven on the spot, it’s truly a gift this cast has been blessed with.” – Obscure Reviews
“They have the audience in stitches, thanks to sharp timing and an ability to spin chaos into comedy.” – Bristol 24/7
“Their world-building is bewitching; conjuring a violent, gory Mad Max vibe alongside whimsical and, somehow, endearing characters.” – The Everyday Magazine
Entry requirements: 16+

Comedy: MELANIE BRACEWELL - A LITTLE TREAT
2026-02-26 20:00 - 22:30 | Hen & Chicken Studio
Bad day? Time for a little treat. Good day? I think that deserves a little treat. With the end of her twenties rapidly approaching, Melanie Bracewell, one of New Zealand’s most popular comics unpacks the last decade of her life.

As seen on Taskmaster NZ, and after complete sell-out seasons at Edinburgh Fringe and Melbourne Festivals. Go on, you’ve earned it.
“Prepare to be captivated” ★★★★ Chortle

Jazz: Gideon Tazelaar and Arnie Somogyi Quintet
2026-02-26 20:00 - 22:30 | Chicken Shed
Gideon Tazelaar – tenor sax, Arnie Somogyi – bass, Andy Hague – trumpet, Jim Blomfield – piano, Ryan Thrupp – drums.
For tonight’s presentation we welcome back after a long absence one of the Be-Bop Club’s co-founders, the great bassist Arnie Somogyi. Arnie started the club alongside Italian pianist Andrea Papini around 1988 as far as anyone can remember, originally in the now closed Crown and Anchor at the bottom of Jacobs Wells Rd.
Arnie visits as part of a short tour featuring special guest New York based saxophonist Gideon Tazelaar.
One of the rising stars of European jazz, tenor saxophonist Gideon Tazelaar grew up in the Netherlands, where he developed his musical skills by playing with saxophonist Benjamin Herman and drummer John Engels from a young age. A prodigious talent, he was admitted to the Bachelor’s degree programme at Amsterdam Conservatoire at the age of just 14. In 2017 he moved to New York City, where he studied at the Juilliard School of Music and played with Wynton Marsalis in a number of line-ups. Now a full-time resident of New York, where he is mentored by saxophone legend George Coleman, Tazelaar is rapidly establishing himself as one of the most exciting young tenor players on that scene, working as a sideman with artists as diverse as Dr Lonnie Smith, Eric Alexander and Dick Oatts as well as leading his own bands. His debut album ‘Volume One’ which he co-released with trumpeter Ian Cleaver, features Danish bassist Felix Moseholm and Jorge Rossy on drums, both of whom are currently touring as two thirds of the Brad Mehldau Trio.
Bassist Arnie Somogyi is well-known to jazz audiences through his work with some of the stars of the British and international scene. A band leader in his own right he has performed frequently at world-famous jazz club, Ronnie Scott’s and at festivals throughout the world with major artists including the Mingus Big Band, Bobby Hutcherson, Art Farmer, James Moody, Seamus Blake and Annie Ross, as well as international stars Tom Jones, Charlie Watts and Amy Winehouse and British jazz legends such as Stan Tracey and Kenny Wheeler. His music has featured on radio, television and in films and he has been nominated for both BBC Radio 3 and Parliamentary Jazz Awards and released 4 critically acclaimed albums as a leader.
To complete the specially assembled band for tonight’s gig, Gideon and Arnie are joined by Bristol’s Andy Hague – trumpet, Jim Blomfield- piano and Ryan Thrupp – drums.

Comedy: SCHALK BEZUIDENHOUT - HEY HEY DIVORCE
2026-02-27 20:00 - 22:00 | Hen & Chicken Studio
Schalk Bezuidenhout is back with a brand new show. His first and (hopefully, for the love of all things good) only show post divorce. Schalk hasn’t checked in with you all in sometime and he wants to talk to you. Actually… he NEEDS to talk to you! Why? Because it’s cheaper than therapy. That’s why!
“Rapid-fire gags and manic energy. Highly recommended.” ★★★★ – The Age.

Music: Furlined
2026-02-27 21:00 - 23:30 | Chicken Shed
Alt-country 5-piece band, Furlined, fronted by singer-songwriter Neil Crossley, brings their unique sound to CRH Music @ the Chicken Shed.
Infectious hooks, rich vocals and lush, swooning cello are the defining features of Furlined, a Bristol-based band formed in 2012 by singer-songwriter Neil Crossley and cellist Tegan Everett. The band’s sound spans alt country and wry English chamber pop – “Morrissey meets Americana” as one review put it – and they have been likened to Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds, Richard Hawley and Orange Juice.
Furlined have attracted acclaim in publications such as Mojo, Clash Magazine, RnR and Billboard. “Songwriter Neil Crossley has one of those winning, strong yet gentle Jackie Leven / Richard Hawley baritones that do male vulnerability beautifully,” concluded Mojo in a 4/5 review of the band’s second album Win A Dream Wedding. “Furlined’s other striking sound is Tegan Everett’s cello, which intros most of Crossley’s dark-honey melodies… A band with distinct aural charms.”
“Morrissey meets Americana – superb songs with an irresistible English wit.” Total Guitar 9/10

Furlined will be performing in our event space, The Chicken Shed, with their first set starting at 9pm

Comedy: Stand Up For The Weekend with Matt Stellingwerf and Guests
2026-02-28 20:00 - 22:30 | Hen & Chicken Studio
Stand Up For The Weekend with Matt Stellingwerf featuring Josh Weller & Tom Glover

Headliner: MATT STELLINGWERF
Hamilton-Born New Zealander and Wangnui-raised farmer’s son, trained criminologist and stand up comedian…Matt Stellingwerf is a man of contradictions.

He expertly brings these contradictions to the stage with his typical low-key style and confidence finding the humour in topics as diverse as love, politics and a crazy interview he once conducted with a serial killer in Death Row!

Highly regarded by his peers, Matt Stellingwerf has won four NZ Comedy Guild Awards, including Best Newcomer. He is now UK based and respected nationwide by promoters and comedy venues.

A renowned MC and compere, Matt is a 3-time nominee for Best MC in New Zealand. Matt was a 2015 and 2016 nominee for the prestigious Billy T Award.

When this erudite satire-superstar gets onto the stage, the acceleration from zero to a hundred jokes is measured in seconds. Matt Stellingwerf’s deftly crafted jokes display a man full of seriously good comedic talent.
“Stellingwerf’s comedy is intelligent, clever and thoroughly researched..all of the while being really likeable” Libel

PRE-EVENT DINING OFFER

Make a night of it. Enjoy dinner in our restaurant and skip the queue with reserved seating waiting for you at the show.

*Does not include a ticket to your chosen event. Please purchase separately. Please order promptly on arrival and allow 1 hour before doors open.
*Please note this offer is NOT available on certain dates

Comedy: PAUL SINHA 2 SINHA LIFETIME
2026-03-01 20:00 - 22:30 | Hen & Chicken Studio
Paul Sinha returned to the Edinburgh Fringe in 2025 after a dramatic 2023 that saw him booking a ticket to Edinburgh’s Royal Infirmary half-way through his run.

The autumn that followed became a flurry of tests, scans and finally the surgery which set him on the road to recovery. With no small debt to the NHS, Paul celebrated his 30th anniversary in stand-up last year and despite his continued quiz successes, his Radio 4 series, and his decision to write a memoir, rather than a hastily patched together murder mystery, Paul is not ready to exit the stage just yet – he is delighted to be touring his latest Edinburgh Fringe show around the UK.

Live Music: The Rowan Leslie Trio presents The Rad Trad Tour 2026
2026-03-02 20:30 - 23:00 | Chicken Shed
Rowan Leslie is an Irish fiddle player and composer from rural County Antrim, currently based in Glasgow.
His trio of fiddle, accordion (Paddy Callaghan), and guitar (Graeme Armstrong) play tunes from across Ireland blended with self-penned material, producing music that is driving, innovative and evocative.
” The beauty that is music is right here and it’s going nowhere ” – Grainne McCool, Irish Music Magazine

The Collector by Rowan Leslie

Talk: Vampires & the Human Psyche
2026-03-04 19:30 - 22:30 | Hen & Chicken Studio
Discover the fascinating connections between vampires and the human mind, from Dracula to Buffy the Vampire Slayer. With Q&A.

Why are we so drawn to vampires? What do they reveal about us?
Long before Hollywood, vampires started with folklore, born out of fear and superstition. Over the centuries, these figures have evolved into a key element of pop culture and left a lasting mark on our collective consciousness. From Dracula and Nosferatu to Lost Boys and our beloved Buffy the Vampire Slayer, this talk will explore these enduring symbols and their connections to the human psyche.
Join Katie Evans in exploring why we both fear and love vampires, and how their stories resonate with us on a personal level. Through psychoanalysis, forensic psychology and the lens of gender and sexuality, we will dig deep into vampiric legend. From Freud and Jung to modern ideas of narcissism, we will explore how these blood-sucking figures represent otherness, internal struggles and the complexities that many of us face as humans.
Speaker Bio:
Katie Evans is a BACP-accredited therapist and self-confessed horror nerd. Her passion for all things spooky began in childhood and continued through her studies in music, film, and media at Liverpool University, before moving into the field of mental health. She holds advanced accreditation in GSRD Therapy (Gender, Sexuality, and Relationship Diversity). In addition, Katie has presented at conferences across Europe and has spoken for organisations including The Maudsley, the British Psychological Society, The NHS, LGBT Foundation, and HMPPS, among others. She is also a registered guest lecturer at Liverpool John Moores University. An advocate for using pop culture in psychotherapy, Katie previously hosted The Mental Health Monsters Podcast and continues to explore how fictional narratives – especially those from the horror genre – can help us better understand ourselves.

Jazz: Jonas Metsäkylä with Eddie Gripper Trio
2026-03-05 20:00 - 22:30 | Chicken Shed
A rare chance to hear one of Europe’s most exciting new guitar voices up close.
Finnish guitarist Jonas Metsäkylä is a real treat to witness live – lyrical, fiery, inventive, and deeply rooted in the jazz tradition. His recent collaborations with Chuck Israels of the Bill Evans Trio have won him high praise, and his work with Fraser Smith has seen him grace stages from Crazy Coqs to the Soho Jazz Festival 2025. Though based in Paris, his UK visits are few and special – this is an exclusive appearance not to be missed.
He joins the Eddie Gripper Trio, led by award-winning pianist and composer Eddie Gripper– known for his critically acclaimed album Home, sell-out shows across the UK, and performances with Simon Spillett, Nigel Price, Pete Long, and more.
A night of original compositions, standards and jazz classics.

Comedy: Ian Stone - IAN STONE IS LOOKING FOR THE WOW
2026-03-06 20:00 - 22:30 | Hen & Chicken Studio
“Life can’t just be the humdrum, the mundane and the routine before the inevitable slide to disease, decay and death. Why can’t we sneak in a bit of awesome, a tad of amazing and maybe a smidge of wonderful? A forest canopy opening onto a huge vista would be enchanting for some but my ancestors wandered in the desert for forty years, I think we’ve been outdoors enough. Others get their fix from the spiritual but I’ve been harbouring a grudge against God since my mother stopped me going to Arsenal after my Barmitzvah. Forty nine years ago. ’God will be watching’ she said. Well, at least he got to see the game. The point is, life could be so much better so I’m on the lookout. Come and join me on the hunt.”

Ian Stone is a “A masterful exponent of self-mocking Jewish humour” according to The Times, he’s been ranked “one of the top ten comedians in the UK” by the The Independent and The Guardian said that he’s “Seriously funny”. His show at the 2023 Edinburgh fringe ‘Ian Stone will Make it Better’, played to packed houses and won a Spirit of The Fringe award.

Ian is a hugely experienced broadcaster, podcaster, writer and a brilliantly funny comedian. He performs at all the major comedy venues/festivals in the UK and around the world. He’s recently begun posting reels on Instagram, Tik Tok, Facebook and X and very quickly built up a following of over seventy thousand. His reels have had millions of hits.

When he’s not doing stand up comedy, Ian presents a football chat show on TNTSport. Guests have included Alan Davies and Omid Djalili as well as football legends Lee Dixon and Rob Lee.

He hosts the Handbrake Off Arsenal podcast for The Athletic. They recently did their first live show at a sold out Leicester Square theatre.

He wrote To Be Someone, a book about growing up as a teenager and loving The Jam. It’s had over five hundred four and five star reviews on Amazon and Goodreads. Paul Weller gave him a quote for the front cover.

For five years, he co-hosted the award winning Rock N Roll Football on Absolute Radio with Ian Wright.

Comedy: Stand Up For The Weekend with Jarred Christmas & Guests
2026-03-07 20:00 - 22:30 | Hen & Chicken Studio
Stand Up For The Weekend with Jarred Christmas featuring Joey Page & Tom Glover
Headliner: Jarred Christmas

New Zealander Jarred Christmas has a unique style that deftly mixes gags with storytelling. He has a dynamic onstage persona and the ability to improvise and roll with anything that’s thrown his way, making his comedy sizzle with originality.
Full of passion and charisma, Jarred takes the audience on a hilarious thrill ride of laughs and gasps with an edge of anger that manifests itself in his incredible rants against the small things in our lives. His confidence leaves the audience secure in the knowledge that they are in capable hands. His material is strong and distinctive, drawn from life experience and random happenings.
Jarred’s unique and larger than life persona has won him fans across the country, proving him to be one of the most likeable stars on the circuit. His energetic storytelling has earned him a whole host of accolades including a Chortle Award and has catapulted him to the forefront of our TV screens in shows such as Mock The Week (BBC2), Never Mind the Buzzcocks (BBC2) 8 out of 10 Cats, (Channel 4), Argumental (Dave), One Night Stand (Dave) and Let’s Dance for Comic Relief (BBC 1). His radio credits include Act Your Age (BBC Radio 4), and Flight of the Conchords (BBC Radio 2).
“Likeable, intelligent and full of unpredictable energy” The Scotsman

Theatre: Wednesday Night Improv: March Triple Bill
2026-03-11 19:30 - 22:30 | Chicken Shed
Wednesday Night Improv’s monthly show continues with a triple bill packed with quick wit, bold characters, and stories made up on the spot.
Join us for a midweek comedy boost featuring three of Bristol’s sharpest improv acts – each one creating a brand-new show right before your eyes, all inspired by audience suggestions.
[1] FAIRLY NON-BIO
In Fairly Non-Bio, a panel of filmmakers at a biopic film’s premiere discuss and dissect the scenes of their film, along the way discovering that maybe it’s not quite as good as they’d hoped. Reality is temporary; film is permanent. But did any of that really happen?
Fairly Non-Bio is the brainchild of Cathal Dowd, drawing together improvisers from across Bristol, including performers from The Groundhogs, I Don’t Know What You’ll Do This Summer, Beansville, and more. After successful launch performances at the Bristol Improv Theatre in 2025, Fairly Non-Bio continue to perform regularly across Bristol.
[2] BIRDWATCHERS
Birdwatchers are a two-prov team made up of Anna Kemp (This is Your Musical) and Paige Tummons (Jazz Police). In their original “epilogue” format, Birdwatchers explore the present and past of 2 characters reminiscing together. The exploratory flashbacks combine comedic elements, heartfelt scenes, and absolutely ridiculous moments that are sure to make you laugh and think that maybe your own family isn’t that weird after all.
Birdwatchers have performed extensively in Bristol and won the Improv Cagematch in 2019.
[3] PRESSURE COOKER: THE IMPROVISED RESTAURANT SHOW
Pressure Cooker whisks you into a fictional restaurant where a dynamic ensemble brings the chefs, customers, and kitchen chaos to life. Using your stories as ingredients, our performers cook up hilarious, unpredictable scenes on the spot. From meltdowns to menu mayhem, it’s comedy served hot and fast.
Winners of the 2025 Bristol Improv Gauntlet | “Pure Comedic Alchemy” — Bristol 24/7
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Whether you’re a seasoned comedy fan or just curious about what happens when performers make it all up as they go, this is a perfect night to dive into Bristol’s thriving improv scene. Expect laughter, surprises, and something completely different – every single time.
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Part of the Wednesday Night Improv series – We’re on the second Wednesday of every month! Details here: https://linktr.ee/wednightimprov

Comedy: RAY O'LEARY - LAUGHTER? I HARDLY KNOW HER!
2026-03-12 20:00 - 22:00 | Hen & Chicken Studio
Ray O’ Leary recently pulled a man from a wrecked car and as the man lay dying, he used his last ounce of strength asking Ray – Best Show Nominee at the 2024 Melbourne International Comedy Festival, ‘Taskmaster New Zealand’ star – to tell his children that he loved them. Ray promised the man he would. But first, he has his new tour to think about. Laughter? I Hardly Know Her played to huge audiences at the 2025 Melbourne and Edinburgh Comedy Festivals, and this burgeoning comedy legend is excited to bring his iconic two-piece suit back to Bristol.

And when that’s out of the way, he can get back to passing on the message.

Jazz: Joe Steels Group
2026-03-12 20:00 - 22:30 | Chicken Shed
Guitarist Joe Steels is based in Appleby in Westmorland and has assembled a band featuring some of the best players in the North East.
Expect shimmering harmonies, intricate lines, and an instinct for space that lets every note breathe. Joe’s playing moves between lyrical storytelling and fearless improvisation, drawing on influences from modern jazz, folk and ambient soundscapes.
Touring to promote their second album, ‘A Blue Patch’ draws together a selection of narratives taken from various aspects of his life and is more broadly a commentary on his belief in music as a vital part of what it is to be human; the euphoric moments, the times that test us and just simply being. Powerful melodies derived from folk and Celtic themes metamorphose with jazz harmony and rhythm in a fusion of genres that is full of excitement, optimism and heartfelt connectivity.
“Wonderful!” – Nikki Iles
“…Joe’s flowing lines a thing of beauty” – Bebop Spoken Here
“the standout act” – Simply Jazz Talk
