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Comedy Balloon

Sadie Pearson

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Comedy Balloon

Ape & Apple, City Centre
Until 13 August 2025

Always double check opening hours with the venue before making a special visit.

Free
Book now

Doing great things to nurture and develop comedy talent, Comedy Balloon is all about giving new acts their start, while also offering old hands a chance to road-test fresh material. The night takes place every Wednesday at Ape & Apple, which prides itself on being “Manchester’s official underground comedy club”, and the oldest free comedy venue in the city.

There are typically 11 acts in a night, six doing 10-minute spots, plus 5×5-minute spots, each introduced by a different weekly compere. All of the acts will be trying out new material, so you’re guaranteed a unique experience and jokes you haven’t heard before. The show starts at 8.30pm, with Comedy Balloon FM beginning at 7.30pm — allowing a generous hour of drinking time, which, you know, is very much encouraged in these circles.

No need to book in advance, just rock up ready to laugh.

Looking for more laughs in Manchester? Explore our comedy guide.

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Looking for a laugh? Here are Manchester’s very best comedy nights.

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