Funny Way To Be gala moves venue

One of the biggest comedy shows of the year has been forced to move to a new location – after protracted building work left the planned venue unplayable.

The Funny Way To Be comedy gala was due to re-open the Witham Hall in Barnard Castle on Friday 6 September, following a multi-million pound renovation.

However the show, headlined by Mark Watson, has now been moved to the nearby Parish Hall, where the club have been operating for the past 18 months.

Funny Way To Be promoter Peter Dixon announced the news this morning in an email newsletter to ticket holders.

“Due to circumstances beyond our control we are moving this performance to the Parish Hall in Newgate, Barnard Castle,” he wrote.

“The reason for the move, which we are confident will not detract from your enjoyment, is to allow finishing off works to take place at the Witham Hall, which is nearing completion.

“Thank you for your understanding and please accept our apologies.”

Best Newcomer nominee Romesh Ranganathan, Tom Deacon, Matt Richardson, Eric Lampaert, Foil Arms and Hog & Nat Luurtsema will join Watson at the 150-seater Parish Hall.

“We set ourselves the task of producing a comedy show the quality of which has never been produced in Barnard Castle before,” Dixon said.

“With a line up of seven of the nation’s top acts we’re thrilled with the outcome.”

Watson will be the 100th stand-up to appear at the comedy club since its inception in 2010.

The Funny Way To Be comedy gala takes place on Friday 6 September at the Parish Hall, Barnard Castle. The show is sold out, however those put off by the venue change can obtain a refund by emailing [email protected].