Plug pulled on Comedy Hullabaloo

The festival has been held for the past three years, attracting some of the biggest names on the comedy circuit.

Last year’s headline act was Pub Landlord, Al Murray. A statement from Underbelly said: “After three fantastic years of the Comedy Hullabaloo in Stratford, there is no doubt that the festival has been a welcome addition to Stratford’s cultural calendar, with thousands of tickets sold and a programme of some of the funniest comedians around.

“However, the costs have proved prohibitive and while we’re very grateful to both our festival partners, Stratforward and the RSC, for their invaluable support, we’ve made the difficult decision not to present the festival in 2016.

“We’ve really enjoyed bringing fantastic comedy to Stratford and we hope to return in the future.”

The event, which regularly attracts thousands of people, has featured a number of top comedians and emerging acts.

Sara Aspley, RSC Director of Commercial Services, said: “Just like Comedy Hullabaloo organisers, we are sorry the festival isn’t returning in 2016, but would be very happy to work with them in the future to see the festival return to the town.

“2016 is an extremely busy year for Stratford, as the RSC and the town itself marks the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s death with an extraordinary mix of events and activities.”

Karen Wild, BID Manager, Stratforward BID Ltd, added: “Comedy Hullabaloo has been a welcome addition to the annual events programme in Stratford for the past three years and Stratforward are proud to have been involved as an event partner.

“We are obviously sorry that the event will not be taking place during 2016 but hope, should circumstances change, to see it return in the future. 2016 will be a busy year for Stratford as it becomes the focus of worldwide attention for Shakespeare’s 400th Anniversary, with a packed events calendar we are sure that there will be something for everyone to enjoy.”