Brighton’s monthly LGBTQI+ comedy show, Down The Hatch, took the stage once more last night at Brighton’s Komedia and we were instantly welcomed into a community space full of fun and laughs.
This comedy show runs like most others: a host, a series of comics, a headline act, with crowd banter, food and drink on offer and a range of topics discussed. The difference is that it features voices that aren’t heard as often and ensures that everyone feels welcome, no matter who they are. So, with Komedia’s great food and always friendly service, we settled in for a night of comedy.
The MC for the night was Lee Peart, an extremely experienced and very funny man who set the tone immediately, sharing funny stories from his life and getting to know the front row. His speedy delivery and clever but cutting lines were perfect for warming up the crowd, and he made sure everyone knew what to expect and how to have fun together. Lee enthusiastically introduced each act, and each time he reappeared, he brought his own spin to the night.
Our first act was Jonathan Oldfield, who presented some of his character creations, including a very intense restaurant fan intent on visiting every branch of a chain. He experimented with physicality and bizarre references, and his new voice showed great potential. Next, Alice India told us in great detail about their life, what makes them unique, and their need to be seen. In quick succession, Salma Habib Lyons presented the view of a perimenopausal woman, ensuring we understood how this made them both the queen and also someone with their own superpowers. The headliner was Sam Nicoresti, who took the stage as a ball of energy. They completely held the crowd, discussing the joy of not having to participate in sports, the benefits of the disabled toilets and also just how their life had changed for the better since coming out as trans.
The lineup varies each time the show is performed, with some acts from the LGBTQI+ community and others not. Performed once a month, usually on the first Sunday, it has become a regular event for many groups to attend together and also a fun night out for couples and friends. Do you need to be part of the LGBTQI+ community to attend? Absolutely not! You just have to love comedy, support each act and be ready to embrace the diversity that Brighton and Hove enjoys. We were impressed by the slick format, enjoyed the range of viewpoints on offer, and laughed throughout the evening.
Down the Hatch Comedy Club returns again on Sunday 1st November for the final time this year, but there are events already in the diary for 2027.
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