Bristol Old Vic is set to host some of the biggest comedy names in the UK for the city's Slapstick festival. Slapstick is the UK’s biggest celebration of silent, visual and classic screen comedy and is set to return to the city in February next year.
Slapstick Sunday - the final day of the six-day event - already has an impressive roster of names on the billing. Sir Michael Palin will be joined on stage by Bristol's own Stephen Merchant and Rob Brydon when he takes part in the final two events of the seven programmed for the King Street venue.
The festival is moving from its traditional late January spot to February 14-19 for its 19th edition and while its full line-up is still being finalised, tickets go on general sale on Thursday (November 27) for its Bristol Old Vic take-over on Sunday, February 19.
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Slapstick’s director Chris Daniels said: “It’s testament to Slapstick’s reputation that we can assemble such a talented and beloved cast of celebrity guests on a single day. And more impressive still that this is just the start. From mid-November, we’ll be sharing more news of what and who will be helping us to raise spirits and smiles with our Slapstick 2023 programme in February.”
Ahead of his 80th birthday, Monty Python star Palin will look back at his long career as a comedy writer and performer, from starring in the Do Not Adjust Your Set ensemble in the 1960s all the way to his role in The Death of Stalin and BBC's lockdown TV series Staged. He will team up with Stephen Merchant to give a brief introduction to a screening of the Monty Python film they both rank as the best, Life of Brian.
Other highlights of Slapstick Sunday at the Bristol Old Vic include actor, author and broadcaster Stephen Mangan who will be sharing his love of Laurel & Hardy. There will also be a screening of The Beatles' film A Hard Day's Night with an introduction from Mike McCartney, younger brother of Sir Paul.
There will also be a one-woman show paying tribute to the wit and wisdom of Joyce Grenfell and the chance to participate in two live podcast recordings hosted by Robin Ince and Chris Grimes. You can see a full description of the shows online - ticket prices range from £10 to £38.
To book for Slapstick Sunday, visit the ‘what’s on’ section, email tickets@bristololdvic.org.uk or telephone 0117 987 7877. Booking links can also be found at www.slapstick.org.uk. The full line up is yet to be announced.
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