The Royal Albert Hall looks set to become a regular comedy venue, as it has announced it will be hosting comedy gigs in its recently renovated Elgar Room.

Starting in January, the venue will open its doors to "established big-name comedians and cutting-edge comedy newcomers", as it puts on a series of gigs under the brand 'Elgar Comedy'. The nights will feature hour-long performances from stand-up circuit stars, with up-and-coming comedians providing additional entertainment.

A spokesman for the Hall says comedy gigs are set to become a regular occurrence, with the aim being "to make the Elgar Room one of the premiere stand-up comedy spaces in the capital."

Alun Cochrane, Doc Brown and Alex Zane will host the first three gigs, with support from newcomers Joe Lycett, Naz Osmonglu and Rob Beckett.

Talking about these new gigs, the venue says: "The comedy begins at 9pm with the comedians taking to the stage in an intimate and friendly atmosphere that combines the comedy theatre experience with an underground comedy club vibe. Following in the footsteps of word-class stand-ups such as Victoria Wood, Ricky Gervais and Russell Brand, who have all played in the main auditorium, these comedians will be making their distinct mark and welcoming both devoted and new fans of comedy."

Elgar Comedy starts on Thursday 27th January, with Alun Cochrane (whose credits include Michael McIntyre's Comedy Roadshow and Mock the Week) as headliner, and support coming from Joe Lycett, a young comedian who has won a string of New Act competitions.

Former underground rapper Ben Smith, aka Doc Brown (pictured), takes to the stage on Wednesday 16th March to perform his widely praised solo show Unfamous. Naz Osmonglu - tipped by British Comedy Guide and others as a future star - is Brown's energetic support act.

Alex Zane, who is returning to stand-up comedy after a spell as a TV presenter, performs his sold-out Edinburgh show at Elgar Comedy in April. Amused Moose Laugh-Off winner Rob Beckett will be the support act on that night.

Lucy Noble, Head of Programming at the Royal Albert Hall, says: "We are delighted to introduce this comedy series in the Elgar Room in 2011. By featuring some of the best talent on the UK comedy scene we are looking to launch this series as one of the premiere places to enjoy comedy in London and continues the Elgar Room's diverse programming after a successful 2010 season."

Doc Brown says: "To be associated with the Royal Albert Hall is a dream come true for me. I'd be excited to be there as a steward, let alone on stage in this new comedy series in The Elgar Room. Coming from the music business, it's a venue intrinsically linked with performers at the peak of their abilities and now I get to join that set."

To find out more visit www.royalalberthall.com