Monthly Archives: February 2026

No, I’m Not Explaining Myself

Why Women Don’t Owe Anyone an Apology for Not Having Children Somewhere along the way, “I don’t have children” became a sentence that invites follow-up questions. Sometimes gentle. Sometimes awkward. Often loaded. Why not?You’d be such a good mum.You might … Continue reading

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Nina Gilligan: Bold, Brilliant, Unfiltered

If you like your comedy sharp, fearless, and properly funny, then Nina Gilligan should already be on your radar. Nina is one of those comedians who doesn’t waste time easing you in. She walks on stage, takes a scalpel to … Continue reading

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Simon Naylor at 53two: The Quiet Force Behind the Magic

Some people are loud champions of the arts. Others get on with it quietly, relentlessly, and with a level of care that holds entire creative ecosystems together. Simon Naylor is very much the latter — and Manchester is better for … Continue reading

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Rachel Fairburn: Sharp and Utterly Unbothered

Rachel Fairburn is the kind of comedian who doesn’t ease you in gently — she grabs you by the collar, makes you laugh, and then leaves you thinking “oh… yeah, fair point actually.” Her comedy is bold, dry, political, personal, … Continue reading

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Evan Desmarais: Maple Syrup, Mayhem, and Manchester Comedy

Every comedy scene needs an engine — someone who brings energy, generosity, and just enough chaos to keep things exciting. In Manchester, that engine often runs on Canadian charm, razor-sharp wit, and what can only be described as a worrying … Continue reading

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Chloe Reynolds: Funny, Fearless, and Fully Herself

Chloe Reynolds is the kind of comedian who makes you laugh first — then gently punches you in the feelings. Her stand-up is sharp, warm, and gloriously honest, drawing on everyday awkwardness, relationships, and the strange expectations placed on women. … Continue reading

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Amit Mistry: Smart, Silly, and Effortlessly Relatable

There’s something instantly likeable about Amit Mistry. Maybe it’s the warm delivery, maybe it’s the sharp observations wrapped in playful chaos — or maybe it’s the way he can talk about life’s absurdities and make you feel like you’re right … Continue reading

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XS Malarkey: Where Manchester Comedy Comes to Play

If Tuesday nights in Manchester had a personality, it would be XS Malarkey. Sharp, welcoming, slightly chaotic in the best way — and absolutely essential to the city’s comedy heartbeat. Hosted at the brilliant 53two, XS Malarkey isn’t just a comedy … Continue reading

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Laura Lexx: Clever, Kind, and Quietly Brilliant

Laura Lexx is proof that comedy doesn’t have to shout to be powerful. Warm, whip-smart, and wonderfully self-aware, Laura has a rare ability to make you laugh hard while also making you feel strangely comforted — like you’ve just had … Continue reading

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