Eddie Kadi curates stand-up showcase for BBC Radio 1Xtra and iPlayer
- 1Xtra's Comedy Gala With Eddie Kadi And Friends is due to be recorded at the Hackney Empire in March, for broadcast on the radio and iPlayer in April
- Acts include Babátúndé Aléshé, Gbemi Oladipo, Kane Brown, Kyrah Gray, Michael Odewale, Ola Labib, Slim and Thanyia Moore
- Eddie Kadi says: "I'm so proud to be hosting the BBC 1Xtra Comedy Gala, showcasing the superstars of our thriving scene alongside the next generation of new wave stars"
BBC Radio 1Xtra is organising its first stand-up showcase.
1Xtra's Comedy Gala With Eddie Kadi And Friends will be recorded at the Hackney Empire on 13 March 2024, for broadcast on the radio station and BBC iPlayer in April.
The BBC says: "Personally curated and hosted by BBC 1Xtra presenter and one of the fastest rising names in comedy, Eddie Kadi, the comedy gala will be a night full of laughter and a celebration of established names and new voices on the black comedy circuit.
"Joining Eddie Kadi on the night will be a line-up of massive headline stars and new wave names who are set to have phenomenal breakout years in 2024 including Babátúndé Aléshé, Gbemi Oladipo, Kane Brown, Kyrah Gray, Michael Odewale, Ola Labib, Slim and Thanyia Moore.
"There will also be live music from Rampage Sound, and the red carpet will be hosted by Joelah Noble."
Eddie Kadi says: "Hackney Empire is the home of Black Comedy and I'm so proud to be hosting the BBC 1Xtra Comedy Gala, showcasing the superstars of our thriving scene alongside the next generation of new wave stars."
Faron McKenzie, head of BBC 1Xtra, comments: "Hosting the 1Xtra Comedy Gala is an immense honour, and with BBC 1Xtra's legendary presenter and comedian Eddie Kadi at the helm, we're ready to celebrate the UK's most brilliant comic talent. We're proud to shine a spotlight on rising stars on the scene, and cannot wait to give our audiences an unforgettable night of laughter at the iconic Hackney Empire."
This BBC showcase news follows on from the BBC Asian Network announcing its next showcase will be in Glasgow on 29th February.