A HOST of brilliant stand-up comedians are set to delight audiences at Theatre Royal Winchester as the comedy festival returns to the stage from Thursday, October 2 to Sunday 5.

The festival kicks off with Katherine Ryan on Thursday, October 2 at 8pm. Katherine is a Canadian comedian who is fast becoming a recognisable face on British TV with appearances on BBC1’s Live At The Apollo and Let’s Dance for Comic Relief, BBC2’s Mock the Week and more.

Saturday night (October 4 at 8pm) is Comedy Gala night, with appearances from a sparkling line up including the high energy Aisling Bea, the slick, upbeat and confident Tom Deacon, and character comedian Brian Gittins.

On Sunday, October 5 at 3pm, Austentatious present an hour-long comedy play, spun in the inimitable style of Jane Austen – and based entirely on audience suggestions. Full of swooning bonnets, stolen looks and dashing gents, Austentatious is not to be missed; fresh, hilarious and entirely unique.

Bridget Christie rounds off the festival on Sunday, October 5 at 8pm. Her ‘feminist-themed’ show A Bic for Her, became the best-selling comedy show ever at The Soho Theatre and won three top comedy awards. It now comes to Winchester as part of a UK tour.

For more details and to book tickets, see the website theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk or call the box office on 01962 840 440.