Top comedians announced for Hyde Park gigs in June
"Eight English people, four Irishmen, a Scotsman, two Canadians, two Kiwis, an American, an Iranian and an Australian all walk into a park..."
It sounds like the start of a joke, but this is the line-up for the 'Barclaycard presents British Summer Time Hyde Park' gigs.
On the 22nd, 23rd, 24th and 25th June 2015, Hyde Park in London will feature many laughs as a top collection of comedians appear alongside a stellar line-up of musical talent.
Rich Hall headlines alongside his band for the first of four days of 'larks in the park', with Jim Jefferies, Ed Byrne and Ardal O'Hanlon heading up the second, third and fourth days respectively.
Set in London's beautiful Royal Park, this annual Barclaycard-sponsored event was launched in the summer of 2013. Last year saw comedy break out of the festival's smaller venues and triumphantly debut on the main Great Oak Stage, with Tim Minchin headlining a fantastic night which saw 4,000 fans setting out their picnic blankets on the Hyde Park grass and basking in sun and laughter.
This year, Rich Hall will be bringing his band to the Great Oak Stage on Monday. Always a favourite part of his show, Hall has recently been expanding his musical musings, driven by his great Americana inspired band. Supporting Rich on the 22nd June are Marcus Brigstocke, Shappi Khorsandi and Romesh Ranganathan, with special guest host Russell Kane.
Jim Jefferies - the internationally acclaimed comedian, writer and actor - will be the headline act on the 23rd June. Jim's work includes specials for HBO (I Swear To God) and Netflix (Bare). He says: "It's great to be back in the UK and at such a cool event. I'm really looking forward to it and to play on the same stage as The Who, Taylor Swift and... Kylie is such an honour! Bring it on!"
Accompanying Jim on 23rd June are two of Canada's finest exports Katherine Ryan and Glenn Wool, plus there will be a set from award-winning newcomer Jamali Maddix. All of the action on the day will be hosted by special guest Andrew Maxwell.
The comedy doesn't stop there, on Day 3 - Wednesday 24th June - Hyde Park will see Ed Byrne joined by Gina Yashere, Jimeoin, Daniel Sloss and special guest host Stephen K Amos.
Headlining the fourth and final day of comedy for this year's 'Barclaycard presents British Summer Time Hyde Park' will be Ardal O'Hanlon. Talking about joining the line-up, the Father Ted star says: "It's brilliant to be part of this event. I hope I look as excited as I feel!"
Ardal's supporting line-up consists of ventriloquist Nina Conti, mime act The Boy With Tape on His Face and stand-up Joe Lycett. The evening will also have the always-reliable Jarred Christmas as its special guest host.
The organisers say: "Hyde Park will be roaring with the sounds of chuckles, giggles and full on belly laughs as the great British Summer Time finds it home in the famous Royal Park." Based on the line-up above, we'd suggest that is a pretty safe bet!
Ticket are now on sale, priced £27.50 - £35. To find out more and purchase, visit www.bst-hydepark.com