Jesterval 2013 opens in Baltic Square
Pictured: Jesterval director David Hadingham, left, gets a moment of respite as work on the festival nears completion.
There will be laughs aplenty on the banks of the River Tyne tonight – as the North East’s biggest comedy festival takes centre stage.
Jesterval opens in Baltic Square, Gateshead, today in a 350-seater marquee overlooking the Newcastle quayside.
The festival, which runs until 7 October, is the brainchild of comedy promoters Della Haq and Dave Hadingham.
Speaking to Giggle Beats as they put the finishing touches to the site, Haq said: “We’re absolutely delighted to be here, set up and ready to go for tonight’s launch.
“We’re so pleased with the line up we’ve put together and the support people have given us.
“We spend lots of time watching comedy and we have a great grasp of what’s out there; the acts have been handpicked to make sure there’s something to suit everyone.”
Ed Byrne, Marcus Brigstocke, Jason Cook and Andrew Maxwell are amongst the names playing the festival.
But Jesterval also features shows from some of the best North East talent, including Patrick Monahan, Viz creator Simon Donald, Seymour Mace, Steffen Peddie and Hebburn creator Jason Cook.
The sitcom star will also take part in a Geordie comedy gala tomorrow, featuring Peddie, Mace and other North East stand-ups.
Free shows
There are also a series of free shows in the programme designed to introduce locals to stand-up.
Steffen Peddie (Hebburn), Andy Fury, Lee Kyle and George Zach will all preview new shows on Saturday and Sunday afternoon, with a ‘pay-what-you-like’ policy.
There will also be free family comedy from Frehd the Clown and Silky.
“We really want Jesterval to introduce people to comedians and comedy, so it was important to have some free gigs which people can come down for,” says Haq.
Jesterval opens tonight with shows from Barry Castagnola (8.30pm) and Patrick Monahan (9.45pm).
Tickets can be bought from the box office onsite, or online at jesterval.co.uk.
Jesterval Comedy Festival takes place 3-7 October at Baltic Square, Gateshead. Click for Jesterval tickets.
