British Comedy Guide

Preview: Levity Festival 2013

Levity Festival

With comedy becoming increasingly popular, more and more festivals around the UK are adding a significant element of comedy to their line-ups. However, there's still only a handful of location-specific festivals that are dedicated solely to comedy. Notably, a big new one is popping up this summer: Levity Festival.

With the sponsorship money of Foster's behind it, Levity Festival has booked 150 comic acts for the weekend of the 19th to 21st July. There's famous headliners like Al Murray, fast rising stars like Lucy Beaumont, and 'alternative' comedy from the likes of Paul Foot playing across the 7 arenas, with a group of newer comedians, some of which might be the stars of the future, getting up on stage too.

Highlights look set to include BCG favourite Craig Campbell, old skool impressionist Phil Cool, the literally magical Piff The Magic Dragon, rapping star Doc Brown, the brilliantly dour Alun Cochrane, and the musical comedy of award-winning Isy Suttie. Plus, of course, headline sets from the likes of Omid Djalili, Sean Hughes, Brendon Burns, Chris Ramsey, Richard Herring, Stephen K Amos, Andy Zaltzman, Jason Cook, Roisin Conaty, Mitch Benn and more.

The setting isn't the most obvious of locations - we must admit we had to look up Peterborough on a map. Turns out it's well placed though, only 45 minutes on the train from London, and also within reach of Birmingham and the like too.

The particularly appealing aspect of Levity Festival though is the sensible pricing - you can get a day ticket, or go for the full weekend. A weekend ticket is just £40, and a day ticket only £25 - much more affordable than other festivals this summer. Those tickets give you access to all the comedy - there's no hidden extras. What's more, kids under 12 go free (there's a free crèche and kiddies areas) and under 17s can have a fun weekend for just £10. Meanwhile, for those over 18, there's rumours of happy hours on all three days where the beer will be just £2.50. Sorted!

Example of a VIP area (Levity Festival)

However, whilst we're always looking for a cheap deal here at BCG, if you're one of the lucky people who has managed to avoid the recession then there is the £250 VIP ticket option for you. This gets you bonuses like priority parking, free wine and liqueurs, some proper posh food, extra performances, the chance to meet some of the stars, and more.

It's perhaps worth emphasising Levity is also more than a load of stand-ups on stage. Side attractions include a comedy competition with a £1k prize, a charity football game between comedians and the crew, a big fun fair, Mugly the ugliest dog, some world record attempts for the biggest custard pie fight (with Page 3 girls!), fireworks, and more. Even though the festival is 40 miles inland, there's apparently a Lido with Sammy the resident seal on site too?!?

Looks like it's worth a trip. Levity organiser Stef Malajny tells us: "It looks like the weather will be perfect, and this will really compliment the relaxed meeting, greeting and general socialising with star comedians and festival followers. The charity footie game seems to be really popular, with our comedians taking on some great celebrities - Shane from Boyzone, stars from This is England, hunks from Emmerdale and the new star from The Call Centre, Corey Rees, will be bring some of his crew down. He is rather hoping the bevy of Page Three girls will take up the physio job. I think I may have to get my boots out! Cone on down and have a great weekend - with our wonderful sponsors it won't break the bank."

To find out more about the festival (and the camping and hotel options if you're up for the whole weekend) visit www.levityfestival.co.uk


Help us publish more great content by becoming a BCG Supporter. You'll be backing our mission to champion, celebrate and promote British comedy in all its forms: past, present and future.

We understand times are tough, but if you believe in the power of laughter we'd be honoured to have you join us. Advertising doesn't cover our costs, so every single donation matters and is put to good use. Thank you.

Love comedy? Find out more
Published: Monday 8th July 2013

Share this page