The Isle of Wight has enjoyed a whole year of great comedy, since Ballyrags Comedy Club first opened its doors this time last year.
Founded in 2024 by Ryde locals, Toby Brown and Luc Valvona, and hosted at FuBar in Union Street, Ballyrags has quickly built a reputation for bringing some of the UK’s finest comedic talent to the Island, while also championing rising stars and local performers.
A monthly must-attend event
What began as an experiment in creating a fresh, inclusive comedy night (with a promise to always feature at least one Island act), has grown into a monthly must-attend event, with sell-out shows and an ever-growing fanbase.
To mark the occasion on Thursday, Ballyrags is presenting an all-Island line-up, with Alistair Barrie – a powerhouse of British stand-up, seen on BBC, ITV, Radio 4, and stages across the world from Glastonbury to the Edinburgh Fringe, headlining. He’ll be joined by fellow Islanders Luke Lamont, Adam Gaterell, Alex Toye and Polly Proud, with Toby and Luc teaming up to host the evening.
Prizes for the funniest birthday card or gift
Expect balloons, cake, singing, and top-tier stand-up – and for a bit of added fun, audience members are encouraged to bring a funny birthday card or gift.
The funniest one will win free tickets to a future Ballyrags show!
Luc said,
“What a year it has been, we have put in so much work to make this into a great club, and now we run two monthly nights (the other at The Wheatsheaf in Newport) and several others for special nights, including one at the ill-fated Bandstand.
“Our night sold out – their closure had nothing to do with us!”
Highlight of the year
Toby said,
“When we put on our first gig we had no idea where this would end up!
“It’s been such an enjoyable experience, every show has been different and I’d say that having Hollywood comedian, Jeff Dye headline a Ballyrags special was probably the highlight so far for me.”
Monthly events
Since beginning a year ago, the local comedy club has brought such recognisable names as Angelos Epithemiou, Geoff Norcott, Jarred Christmas, and Tony Law to headline the regular Third Thursday of the month nights at FuBar, and has even more big names booked for the future. Watch out for some exciting announcements to come.
Ballyrags is an old word found in the Isle of Wight dictionary which means, among other things, “use of scurrilous language” and to play a joke on someone.
The Big Ballyrags Birthday Bash
The Big Ballyrags Birthday Bash is on Thursday 17th April, at FuBar, Ryde.
Tickets are available for £12.50 (with group discounts available) at ballyrags.com, or for £15 on the door.
Doors at 7pm, show starts at 7:30pm.
News shared by Luc in his own words. Ed
