Comedy: Minkley’s night of mirth

Raising funds for The Samaritans and growing each year, this annual remembrance won’t be forgotten

This is a pretty gob-smacking line-up – and all for just £12. If you got a ticket in time. If not, you may want to lurk around the box office on the night, or take advantage of the more civilised alternative of registering for the online waiting list for any returns.

Set up several years ago, Minkley’s Night Of Mirth is the brainchild of comic Angela Barnes, who organised the fundraiser in memory of dear pal Oliver Minkley. Since then it’s grown in its impact on the Brighton comedy scene incrementally, attracting bigger names from the world of comedy and making it possibly the hottest ticket of the year. Headlining proceedings is Stewart Lee.

A rare treat to see him in the club-sized venue of the Komedia instead of the Dome’s Concert Hall he’s been used to occupying whenever he visited Brighton with a new show. Also headlining is Mark Watson – again a stalwart of the Dome’s Concert Hall – a firm favourite with his flights of fancy, recent novels and record-breaking comedy marathons.

Other stars of comedy on the jam-packed bill include the comedy improv rappings of Abandoman, the angry and heart-wrenching joys of Nick Helm, last year’s immediate Fringe sell-out in the form of Mr B the Gentleman Rhymer, firm circuit favourite Michael Fabbri, and TV panel-show regular and stand-up Rob Beckett. Phew! Sell your iPhone to get a ticket, trade your fridge to get in the room – this is one fabulous night of comedy you’ll always remember.

Minkley’s Night Of Mirth, Monday 29 April, Komedia, 8pm, £SOLD OUT, apply for returns online