Empire launches summer Laughing Season

The Empire Laughs Back Comedy Club is kicking off the first ever summer ‘Laughing Season’ this month.

This is the first time in the club’s 18 year history that the laughs have rolled on in July and August offering locals and visitors alike the chance to beat the summertime blues with a good laugh on a Tuesday night.

Jackie Hamilton, organiser of Belfast’s best and longest running comedy club, said the decision to keep the iconic Tuesday night venue open was in response to public demand and to extend a choice of entertainment to international visitors to the city.

He added: “There are many visitors in July and August and they demand to be entertained after visiting the wonderful sights Belfast has to offer. What better way than to enjoy the best in homegrown and international humour at Belfast’s best comedy venue?”

The comedy line-up will feature at least three comedians performing each evening. Highlights include a Father Ted comedy treat with two of the funniest turns of the legendary sitcom, Joe Rooney (Fr Damo) and Patrick Mc Donnell (Fr Eoin McLove), together with hilarious Co Tyrone comic Diarmuid Corr.

The club will also host some of the top names from south of the border such as Eric Lalor, Steve Cummins, John Colleary and Brendan Burke. Locally there is also the funniest thing ever to emerge from Ballyclare, Colin Geddis aka Barry the Blender, Martial Artist and Youtube phenomenon.

The full line-up is: 19th July – Eric Lalor & Chris Kent; 26th July – Johnny Candon, Micky Bartlett & Shane Todd; 2nd August  – Steve Cummins, Adam Neeson & Colin Geddis aka Barry the Blender Henderson; 9th August – Robbie Bonham & Magic George; 16th August – John Colleary & Gerry Mc Bride; 23rd August – Father Ted Comedy Treat with Joe Rooney (Fr Damo) & Patrick Mc Donnell (Fr Eoin Mc Love) & Diarmuid Corr; 30th August – Brendan Burke & Liam Watson

The club runs every Tuesday at 9pm and costs £8 with a £7 concession for students. Doors open at 8pm

For more information on all the upcoming shows and details of surprise guest appearances visit: www.thebelfastempire.com or follow it on Facebook at Empire Comedy Club, Belfast.