With over 600 acts applying to enter, from TV comics to young upstarts, the best 220 were chosen to take part in heats taking place across England, Scotland and Wales. It’s the FA Cup of Comedy!

Each heat sees 9 acts perform their best 10 minute set, hoping to impress the crowd and be voted into the semi-finals, one step closer to glory! Who will hold their nerve? Will we see big guns fall at the first hurdle? It’s all up to you, the audience…

The Grand Final takes place on Tuesday 8 December at London’s Comedy Store where the winner will be crowned British Comedian of the Year 2026 and take home a potentially career-changing £10,001.

Start time:  7:30pm
Estimated end time:  9:30pm
Doors open:  1 hour before start
Age guidance:  Strictly 18+
Tickets £9.50

When you go to your performance, why not make a day of it. Read our guide on visiting the Blackburn Empire Theatre.