The Last Stop Before Edinburgh

A free, two-day comedy festival is on its way to Tyneside. Innes McQuillin reports.

One venue, two days, a clutch of comedians. Silly Billies, the promoters behind Newcastle’s new Last Stop Before Edinburgh festival, like to keep things simple.

They’re not even asking people to put their hand in their pocket. It’s free. A bargain, considering the plethora of name performers appearing at The Cumberland Arms in Byker on Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 July.

There are Edinburgh-bound acts aplenty here, as is bound to be the case given the festival’s close proximity to the Fringe, and they all have an alternative edge.

South Shields act Sean Turner, ‘the dyslexic Geordie’, closes the show on Saturday night. Also appearing are sketch groups Heavy Petting and Staple/face, while Thomas Ward & Richard Todd vary the mix with stand-up, sketches and songs.

On Sunday, Al Greaves kicks things off before handing the mic to stands-ups Jonny Pelham, George Zach and Sean Morley.

Character comedy also gets a look in as Sir Dickie Benson recounts memorable moments from his acting career, leaving Seymour Mace (Ideal, Hebburn) and guests to round off the night.

Last Stop Before Edinburgh builds on the successful series of regular monthly shows run by Jack Gardner and Sam Megahy.

They champion the alternative, anarchic and quirky face of comedy that has long been a feature of North East humour. Think Vic & Bob, rather than pipe & slippers.

Comedy venues rarely get more than a passing mention, which would do grave injustice to The Cumberland Arms.

It’s a rare gem: a traditional old fashioned pub, bursting with character and atmosphere, the heart of the local community. It deserves attention on its own merits, especially for fans of real ale.

Last Stop Before Edinburgh, The Cumberland Arms, James Place Street, Byker, Newcastle, 26 & 27 July, FREE (with voluntary contribution). Click to see the full programme.