Laugh Out Loud: A Guide to the Best Asian Comedy in the UK

The UK has a thriving scene for Asian comedy, with loads of great acts and events happening all over. From big names like Paul Chowdhry to regular club nights and festival appearances, there's something for everyone who enjoys a good laugh. This guide looks at some of the best places and shows to catch Asian comedy in the UK, so you can find your next favourite comedian.

Key Takeaways

• Paul Chowdhry's 'Englandia' tour is a major event for British-Asian stand-up, following his record-breaking Wembley Arena show.

• The BBC Asian Network regularly hosts comedy events, including shows recorded in London and Glasgow, and features at the Edinburgh Fringe.

• Established comedy clubs like The Comedy Store and Comedy Carnival offer regular nights with a mix of established and new Asian talent.

• Venues such as Comedy in Your Eye provide affordable access to high-quality stand-up, often featuring comedians seen on TV.

• Joe Wong offers a unique bilingual performance style, bridging cultures with his humour in both English and Mandarin.

1. Paul Chowdhry: Englandia

Paul Chowdhry's 'Englandia' tour was a massive deal, and rightly so. After his record-breaking 'Live Innit' tour, which saw him become the first British-Asian stand-up to sell out London's Wembley Arena, expectations were sky-high. And he delivered. Described by some as the greatest British Asian comedian, his impact on the UK comedy scene is pretty undeniable.

The 'Englandia' tour cemented his status as a major comedic force. It wasn't just about the laughs; it was about the cultural commentary woven into his sharp observations. He has a knack for talking about things that matter to a lot of people, but in a way that's genuinely funny and relatable.

Here's a quick look at what made the tour stand out:

• Sharp Social Commentary: Chowdhry tackles contemporary issues with wit and intelligence.

• Relatable Observations: He connects with audiences through everyday experiences and cultural nuances.

• High-Energy Performance: His stage presence is electric, keeping the audience engaged throughout.

His Edinburgh Fringe run in 2023 was a particular highlight, with sold-out shows and rave reviews, proving that his appeal stretches far and wide. It's this ability to connect with such a broad audience that makes him such a significant figure in British comedy today. You can find more about his past performances and impact on Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

The 'Englandia' tour wasn't just a series of jokes; it was a reflection of modern Britain, delivered with the kind of fearless honesty that only a comedian at the top of their game can manage. It's this blend of humour and insight that makes Paul Chowdhry a must-see act.

2. Asian Network Comedy Returns To London

It’s always a good sign when a comedy night makes a comeback, and the BBC Asian Network has been doing just that, bringing their popular show back to London. This isn't just any old gig; it's a chance to catch some of the UK's finest Asian comedians all under one roof. The event aims to shake off those post-holiday blues with a healthy dose of laughter.

Last time around, the BBC Radio Theatre in London was the place to be. They've put on some cracking lineups in the past, featuring names that have gone on to do really big things. You might remember Abdullah Afzal from Citizen Khan, or the brilliant Mawaan Rizwan. They've also had Tez Ilyas, who's a regular on TV now, and even YouTube sensation IIsuperwomanII flew in from Canada. It really shows the breadth of talent they're able to pull together.

Here's what you can generally expect from these kinds of shows:

• A mix of established comedians and rising stars.

• A variety of styles, from observational humour to storytelling.

• A lively atmosphere, perfect for a night out.

• Often recorded for broadcast, so you might even end up on the radio!

It’s a great way to discover new comedians and support the vibrant Asian comedy scene in the UK. Keep an eye on the Asian Network Comedy listings for when they announce their next London date – you won't want to miss it.

3. Asian Network Comedy Returns To Glasgow

It’s always a good sign when a comedy night decides to pack its bags and head north of the border. The BBC Asian Network has been bringing its popular comedy shows to different cities, and Glasgow has been a regular stop.

This isn't just about bringing comedy to a new audience; it's about celebrating the diverse talent that exists across the UK. Glasgow, with its own vibrant arts scene, has welcomed these events with open arms.

The Glee Club in Glasgow has often been the venue for these fantastic nights. It’s a place that knows how to handle a live audience, and when you mix that with the energy of the Asian Network comedians, you're in for a treat.

These shows usually feature a mix of established names and up-and-coming talent. You might see comedians you recognise from TV or radio, alongside fresh faces who are making a name for themselves on the circuit. It’s a great way to discover new favourites.

Here’s what you can generally expect:

• A line-up of comedians with roots in or connections to Asian heritage.

• A mix of stand-up styles, from observational humour to storytelling.

• A lively atmosphere, with the audience often getting involved.

• The chance to see a recording for BBC Radio, meaning your laughter might be heard by thousands!

The return of Asian Network Comedy to Glasgow highlights the broadcaster's commitment to reaching audiences across the country. It provides a platform for comedians and brings top-tier entertainment to Scotland's largest city, fostering a connection between performers and a wider demographic.

If you're in Glasgow and looking for a night of laughs, keeping an eye on the Asian Network Comedy schedule is a good idea. You never know who might be on the bill, but you can be sure it'll be a memorable evening. It's a testament to the growing presence of Asian comedians in the UK comedy scene, and Glasgow is definitely benefiting from it. You can often find details about upcoming shows on the BBC Asian Network website or through their social media channels.

4. Asian Network Comedy At Edinburgh Fringe

The Edinburgh Fringe is a massive deal for comedians, and the BBC Asian Network has consistently brought some brilliant talent to the festival over the years. It's a chance for established names and up-and-coming stars to showcase their material to a huge, diverse audience.

Think of it as a launchpad. Many comedians who've performed at the Fringe have gone on to bigger things, and the Asian Network's showcases are a great way to catch them early. They often feature a mix of styles and backgrounds, reflecting the vibrant tapestry of British Asian comedy.

Here's what you might expect from an Asian Network Comedy night at the Fringe:

• A host to keep the energy up and introduce the acts.

• A line-up of several comedians, each doing a shorter set.

• A real buzz in the room, with audiences eager for a laugh.

It's a fantastic opportunity to see a broad spectrum of comedic voices all in one place. You never know who you'll discover, and it's always a good laugh. The festival itself is an incredible experience, and catching a show like this just adds to the magic. It's a prime example of excellent storytelling and direction in a small venue with a minimal set, making for an intimate and hilarious experience. You can often find these kinds of gems during the Edinburgh Fringe season.

5. BBC Asian Network's Big Comedy Night

Right then, let's talk about BBC Asian Network's Big Comedy Night. This was a proper showcase, bringing together some of the best Asian comedians from all over the UK, and even a few from further afield. It was a chance to see a real mix of talent, from up-and-coming faces to established names.

The event was recorded back in February 2014 at the BBC Radio Theatre in London, and it was a pretty big deal for the network. It was hosted by Tommy Sandhu, who you might know from the breakfast show. He introduced a line-up that really had a bit of everything.

We're talking about:

• Abdullah Afzal, who people might recognise from 'Citizen Khan'.

• Mawaan Rizwan, known for his energetic style.

• Anil Desai, a dab hand at impressions.

• Tez Ilyas, who was a finalist in the BBC New Comedy Awards.

• Romesh Ranganathan, who was already getting a lot of critical acclaim.

• And even IIsuperwomanII from Canada, a big YouTube star, plus Aditi Mittal, a top comic from India.

It was a good way to catch a lot of different styles of comedy all in one go. You could join in the chat online too, using the hashtag #BigComedyNight.

This kind of event really highlights the growing presence of Asian comedians in the UK comedy scene. It gave a platform to a diverse range of voices and perspectives, showing just how much talent is out there.

If you missed it live, you could catch it on BBC Red Button. It was a good shout for a laugh, especially if you wanted to see some of the UK's finest Asian comedy talent.

6. Comedy In Your Eye

Right then, let's talk about Comedy In Your Eye. If you're after a proper laugh without emptying your wallet, this place in Camden is definitely worth checking out. It's tucked away upstairs at The Camden Eye pub, which, by the way, has been around for ages – over 150 years, can you believe it? The vibe upstairs is pretty intimate, which is great because you feel really close to the comedians. It’s not some massive, sterile theatre; it’s more like grassroots comedy, buzzing with energy. Plus, it's air-conditioned, which is a lifesaver when the place is packed.

What's really cool about Comedy In Your Eye is the line-ups. They keep them a bit of a secret, which adds to the excitement. You never quite know who you're going to see, but they always promise a mix of TV names trying out new stuff and up-and-coming talent. They've had people who've been on Netflix, Amazon Prime, Live at the Apollo, Mock the Week – you name it. It’s a proper gamble, but one that usually pays off with some seriously funny sets.

Here's the kicker though: the price. You can often grab tickets for as little as £3, which is pretty wild when you think about what you're getting. They even do a deal where if you pre-order a drink when you book your ticket online, your entry is basically free. Bargain, right?

• Location: Upstairs at The Camden Eye, 2 Kentish Town Road, NW1 9NX.

• Getting there: Super easy, right opposite Camden Town tube station.

• Show times: Generally Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, with shows starting around 7:30 pm.

• Tickets: Usually around £3, often cheaper if you book online.

This place has won awards and got some glowing reviews, even being called an 'EXCELLENT COMEDY NIGHT' by the Evening Standard. It’s a solid choice for a cheap night out that doesn’t skimp on the laughs.

7. The Comedy Store

Right then, let's talk about The Comedy Store. If you're after a proper, no-nonsense stand-up experience in London, this is pretty much the gold standard. Located just a stone's throw from Piccadilly Circus, it's been around for ages and has seen pretty much every big name in comedy pass through its doors at some point. It’s the kind of place where you know you’re going to get a solid night of laughs, no messing about.

They've got a couple of main things going on. First up is 'The Best In Stand Up', which is their flagship show. This usually features a lineup of about five comedians, and they run it pretty much every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. The lineups change, but they always aim to bring in a good mix of established acts and newer faces. It’s a good way to see a few different styles of comedy all in one go. You can expect to pay around £20-£24 for these shows, though it's always worth checking their website for the latest prices and any potential concessions.

Then there are The Comedy Store Players. These guys are legends in the improv world. On Sundays, they take to the stage and create entire scenes based on audience suggestions. It’s completely unscripted, which means it’s different every single time and can be absolutely brilliant. If you've never seen improv before, this is a fantastic introduction. Tickets for The Players are usually a bit cheaper, around £22.

Booking is essential, especially for the weekend shows. It’s best to head straight to their official website to sort out your tickets. They're pretty strict on age, so it’s an 18+ venue. If you need to sort out any access requirements, you'll need to give the box office a call directly.

It’s a place that really understands what makes a good comedy night. Whether you’re into carefully crafted stand-up or the spontaneous chaos of improv, The Comedy Store has got you covered. It’s a real cornerstone of the London comedy scene, and definitely worth a visit if you want to catch some top-tier talent. You might even catch someone like Aatif Nawaz, who’s had some great success with his own shows Aatif Nawaz: Instant GrAATIFication.

Here's a quick rundown of what to expect:

• 'The Best In Stand Up': Typically Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights. Features a curated lineup of five comedians.

• The Comedy Store Players: Sundays are dedicated to their world-class improv troupe. Expect spontaneous and hilarious scenes.

• Age Restriction: Strictly 18+.

• Booking: Advised to book in advance via their official website.

8. Good Ship Comedy

Good Ship Comedy has built a reputation for being one of London's most welcoming spots for stand-up. It's the kind of place where you feel instantly at home, whether you're a seasoned comedy fan or just popping in for a laugh. They consistently book a great mix of established names and comedians who are really starting to make waves.

They're known for putting on nights that feel both professional and genuinely friendly.

What's good about Good Ship is the variety they offer. You might catch a political comic one night and then some surreal observational humour the next. It keeps things fresh, you know? They often have shows in different parts of London too, so it's worth checking their listings to see where they're popping up.

Here's a look at what you might expect:

• Top Headliners: Expect to see comedians you've probably seen on TV or heard on the radio.

• Rising Stars: They're brilliant at spotting talent before it gets huge.

• Friendly Atmosphere: It's not just about the jokes; the vibe is a big part of the appeal.

It's a club that really understands what makes a good night out. They focus on putting on quality acts in comfortable settings, making sure everyone has a good time from start to finish. It’s not overly fancy, but that’s part of its charm – it’s all about the comedy.

Tickets usually fall into a reasonable price bracket, making it accessible for most budgets. It’s definitely a solid choice if you’re looking for a reliable night of laughs in the city.

9. Comedy Carnival

If you're after some proper, no-holds-barred stand-up, Comedy Carnival is definitely worth checking out. They put on shows in a few different spots around central London, like Covent Garden, and the vibe is all about bold, unfiltered laughs. It's the kind of place where you can expect comedians to really push the envelope, which is exactly what we want, right?

They've got a pretty consistent schedule, often running shows on Fridays and Saturdays. The lineups usually feature a mix of well-known faces and up-and-coming talent, so you're likely to see someone you recognise or discover your new favourite comic. It's a great shout for a lively night out in the city.

Here's a peek at what you might find:

• Location Variety: Shows pop up in places like Covent Garden and Leicester Square, making it easy to fit into your plans.

• Lineup Mix: Expect a blend of established names and fresh faces, keeping things exciting.

• Package Deals: Sometimes they offer show and dinner deals, which can be a good way to make a night of it.

Tickets are usually in the £11-£22+ range, which feels pretty reasonable for the quality you get. It’s a good idea to check their listings for specific dates and acts, as things can change. You can often find tickets through their website or other booking platforms, so securing your spot in advance is usually the way to go, especially for those popular weekend slots. It's a solid choice for anyone looking for a genuine comedy experience in London, and they're a regular fixture on the comedy circuit, so you can rely on them for a good time. You can find out more about their Covent Garden shows.

Comedy Carnival aims to provide a raw and energetic comedy experience, bringing together a diverse range of performers who aren't afraid to tackle any subject. It's about the immediate reaction, the shared laughter, and the sheer fun of live performance.

10. Joe Wong: Bilingual Performance

Joe Wong is a bit of a unique character on the UK comedy circuit, and not just because he's originally from China. He's got this knack for performing in both English and Mandarin, which is pretty impressive, right? It means he can connect with a really wide range of people, which is a smart move.

He often talks about his experiences growing up in China and then moving to the US for his studies – he actually has a PhD in molecular biology, believe it or not! But the stage called, and he swapped lab coats for microphones. His jokes often touch on the differences between cultures, the immigrant experience, and just the general weirdness of life. It’s observational stuff, but with that extra layer of cultural insight.

His ability to switch between languages isn't just a gimmick; it's a core part of his act. He can tell a joke in English, then flip it into Mandarin, sometimes for double the laughs, as he likes to say. It really highlights how humour can cross borders, even if the words don't.

Here's a little look at what makes his shows stand out:

• Cultural Observations: He’ll often compare and contrast Chinese and Western ways of doing things, which is usually pretty funny.

• Self-Deprecating Humour: Like many good comedians, he’s not afraid to poke fun at himself.

• Intellectual Edge: Thanks to that science background, his jokes sometimes have a bit more depth than you might expect.

Wong’s comedy is a testament to how shared experiences, even across different languages, can bring people together. It’s about finding the funny in the everyday, no matter where you’re from.

He’s toured quite a bit, and while he might not be a household name in the UK in the same way as some others, he’s definitely someone worth checking out if you get the chance. Keep an eye on his website for any UK dates – you might be surprised by how much you relate to his stories, even if you don't speak a word of Mandarin.

Joe Wong's act is a real treat, especially when he switches between languages. It's fascinating to see how he connects with everyone, no matter what they speak. Want to catch more amazing comedians like Joe? Check out our website for upcoming shows and grab your tickets!

So, Go Forth and Laugh!

Right then, that's a wrap on our little look at the cracking Asian comedy scene here in the UK. From the big names filling arenas to the smaller clubs where you might just discover the next big thing, there's loads of laughs to be had. We've seen how comedians like Paul Chowdhry are packing out huge venues, and how others are making waves on TV and online. Plus, with events like the Asian Network Comedy shows popping up around the country, and the sheer variety of nights happening in places like London, it’s clear there’s something for everyone. So, don't just sit there – get out there and catch a show. Your funny bone will thank you for it, honestly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Asian Network Comedy?

Asian Network Comedy is a series of events and shows that feature stand-up comedians from Asian backgrounds. These events often happen in different cities across the UK, like London and Glasgow, and sometimes even at big festivals like the Edinburgh Fringe. It's a great way to see funny people who share similar cultural experiences.

Who is Paul Chowdhry and why is he mentioned?

Paul Chowdhry is a really famous British-Asian comedian. He's known for his energetic style and has sold out huge venues like Wembley Arena. His tour 'Englandia' is a big deal, showing how far Asian comedy has come in the UK.

Where can I see live comedy shows in London?

London has loads of places to see comedy! You've got big clubs like The Comedy Store, which is really well-known, and smaller, friendlier spots like Good Ship Comedy and Comedy Carnival. Some places even offer dinner with the show, making it a full night out.

What's special about Joe Wong's comedy?

Joe Wong is a unique comedian because he performs in both English and Mandarin. He uses his experiences growing up in China and moving to the US to make jokes that people from different backgrounds can understand and laugh at. He's known for being smart and funny.

Are there comedy shows for students or those on a budget?

Yes, definitely! Places like Comedy in Your Eye in Camden are known for being super affordable, with tickets sometimes as low as £3. They often have great comedians, so you get a really good show without spending a lot of money.

What was 'BBC Asian Network's Big Comedy Night'?

This was a special comedy event put on by the BBC Asian Network. It brought together many talented Asian comedians from the UK and even other countries like Canada and India. It was a chance to see a lot of great stand-up all in one show, hosted by Tommy Sandhu.