Comedy: Modern life is excellent

A big hit on the small screen in recent months is the game phenomenon ‘Dara O’Briain Goes 8-Bit’. Having grown from a small but enthusiastically received fringe show, to its current status as one of Dave’s flagship programmes, it’s tapped into nostalgia for all ages – a nifty trick. And its creators have not rested on their laurels.

Go 8-Bit presents WiFi Wars, hosted by one of the TV show’s team captains and comedian Steve McNeil. You go along, log in with your smart phone or tablet (making sure you have plenty of battery charged) and compete in a variety of games, quizzes and challenges. Totally immersive, the show was first performed as part of the Royal Institution’s 2015 Summer Programme, this is fun times with a different twist.

Our favourite monthly comedy night, tipping the next big things and taking a punt on those with new comedic ideas, is here this Thursday – Comic Boom. Headlining will be Tom Allen, whose star is fast ascending (8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown, The John Bishop Show, starring in cult BBC radio show Bleak Expectations) and a real treat to see in such close proximity. Currently supporting Sarah Millican, he’s all set to follow in the success of her previous support acts – Seann Walsh and Romesh Ranganathan.

WiFi Wars, Wednesday 26 October, The Old Market, 7.30pm, £12.50/10; Comic Boom, Thursday 27 October, Komedia, 8pm, £9/7/5