At the top of the bill is Eric Rushton, one of the UK’s most exciting new voices. Winner of the Channel 4 Sean Lock Award (2023) and Leicester Mercury Comedian of the Year (2020), Eric has appeared on ITV2’s The Stand Up Sketch Show and BBC3’s Such Brave Girls, and written for The Last Leg, Late Night Lycett, and 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown. His recent Edinburgh Fringe runs (The Real One, Innkeeper) earned rave reviews and sold-out audiences.
Opening the show is Dawn Bailey, a crowd favourite whose relatable, razor-sharp comedy has taken her from winning XS Manchester’s Comedian of the Year to performing across the UK circuit. Dawn’s honest straight-talking style, blending family life, work, and the absurdities of everyday existence, has been praised by the BBC as “pin sharp anecdotes… she’s a very funny lady”.
Keeping the night flowing is Alex Leam, Derby-based MC and Fringe performer, known for his mischievous blend of music and comedy.
And rounding out the bill is James Beckett, a Derbyshire-based comic whose candid storytelling and sharp wit have seen him winning Beat the Frog and plaudits on the grassroots circuit.
Together, they deliver a night that’s more than just stand-up – it’s a showcase of award-winning talent, local voices, and the kind of atmosphere that makes Derby audiences legendary.