Marking 30 years as a cornerstone of the London comedy scene, The Pleasance Islington is launching 2026 with a dual focus on value and volume. The venue is debuting Cut Price Comedy, a brand new monthly mixed-bill night, and hosting its colossal 12th annual Work in Progress Comedy Season featuring over 100 acts.
Responding to the rising cost of living, Cut Price Comedy offers unbeatable value, presenting five top acts plus an MC for just £5 per ticket. The inaugural show on January 27th immediately sets a high bar, featuring the two reigning Edinburgh Comedy Award champions, Sam Nicoresti (Best Show 2025) and Ayoade Bamgboye (Best Newcomer 2025). They are joined by Taskmaster favorite and two-time Edinburgh winner John Kearns, along with musical comedian Jazz Emu and rising star Maia Tassalini, all hosted by Radio 4’s Garrett Millerick. Future lineups will feature major names like Amy Gledhill, Celya AB, Pierre Novellie, and Helen Bauer. The venue is also offering cut-price pints and pizzas, ensuring an accessible and top-quality night out.
Alongside the new venture, the Work in Progress Comedy Season runs from January through April, providing a vital platform for over 100 comedians to test new material. Audiences will get a first look at shows from stars like Taskmaster contestants Maisie Adam and Sophie Duker, alongside Edinburgh Comedy Award winners Jordan Brookes and Ahir Shah. Nominees including Olga Koch, Catherine Bohart, and Huge Davies also join the season.
The season is the prime place to spot the next big thing, with dozens of newcomers, including recent So You Think You're Funny? winners, working up their debut Fringe hours. With shows starting from just £8, The Pleasance continues its mission to be the essential hub for discovering and enjoying the best new comedy in London.
