DROITWICH’S much-anticipated inaugural Rik Mayall Comedy Festival gets under way with at 10.30am on Saturday, May 31, with a fun-filled official opening in Victioria Square.
The event promises to be a festival by the community for the community with more than 200 events across 30 venues from tomorrow until next Saturday, June 7.
From pubs and salons to shopping centres and unexpected corners of the town, more than half the shows are free or ‘pay what you want’, making it one of the most accessible festivals of its kind.
The big launch
Among those attending the official opening will be comedian and musical satirist Mitch Benn, cricketing legend and proud ‘honorary citizen of Droitwich’ Ashley Giles who will give the opening speech and committee members, including the Festival Directors and Coun Richard Morris.
Others present will include ITV Central News presenter, and Droitwich resident, Steve Clamp who will be the host for the day, the Mayor of Droitwich Spa, Town Crier, Edgar Harwood, Chair of Norbury Theatre, Anne Lane, and more.
As well as performing at the launch, Mitch Benn will be be returning to the stage that evening at the Droitwich Working Men’s Club with his solo show Wild Eyed Loner at the Gates of Oblivion — a deeply personal and hilarious exploration of how Rik, Ade Edmondson, and their contemporaries shaped his comedic worldview.
‘Lots of laughter’
During what is billed as an eight-day bonanza, full of laughter, chaos and community spirit, there will be comedy performances, live music, entertainers, children’s shows, street performers, community volunteers and organisers in full festival gear, market stalls and more.
It is the only festival in the UK to honour the comedic legacy Rik Mayall. With the blessing of Rik’s family, a dedicated all-volunteer team worked tirelessly with local businesses, and creative partners for 14 months to create this unique event of comedy, creativity and community pride.
Comedian and musical satirist Mitch Benn, whose work is significantly influenced by Rik Mayall’s fearless comedic style, said: “In my teenage years I was obsessed with the Young Ones and the Comic Strip crew.
“There couldn’t be a more fitting tribute to Rik than this joyous festival packed with big names and new talent.
“He’d have loved it – and I’m thrilled to be part of it.”
Festival director Stuart Panrucker said: “We’re proud to be launching the biggest cultural event the town has seen in decades.”
Visit: rikmayallcomedyfestival.com for more information and tickets.
