Darren Harriott

Kicking off our Friday night in style, we’re thrilled to welcome headliner Darren Harriott. Instantly recognisable from Live at the Apollo and Would I Lie to You?, Darren has become one of the most in-demand and familiar faces on British comedy TV.

You’ll have spotted him lighting up screens across a wide range of shows, including Apprentice: You’re Fired, Dancing on Ice, Love Island: Aftersun, Britain’s Best Takeaway with Sarah Cox, and Richard Osman’s House of Games, to name just a few.

Darren’s talents go far beyond the screen. As the star of BBC Radio 4’s Darren Harriott’s Black Label and host of Newsjack Unplugged on Radio 4 Extra, he’s also made a big impression on the airwaves—proving his comedy works just as well without the cameras. His radio credits also include appearances on Fighting Talk (Radio 5 Live) and The Now Show (Radio 4).

Expect sharp, relatable comedy and a headline set you won’t want to miss.

Ignacio Lopez

If you’ve ever spent time in Spain, you’ll love Ignacio Lopez’s hilarious take on the cultural quirks that set it apart from the UK. And if you haven’t? Don’t be surprised if his comedy inspires your next holiday.

With Welsh roots and a proudly European outlook, Ignacio draws on a rich mix of influences to deliver truly original material packed with sharp observations and big laughs.

A familiar face on the comedy circuit, you’ll recognise him from Live at the Apollo and his regular appearances on Have I Got News for You—and once you’ve seen him live, it’s easy to see why audiences keep coming back for more.

Madeleine Brettingham

After years of crafting sharp, gag-packed material behind the scenes, Madeleine Brettingham is now stepping into the spotlight as one of the most exciting new voices in stand-up.

2025 proved to be a breakthrough year, with an incredible run of competition success. Madeleine scooped a string of major awards, including the prestigious So You Think You’re Funny, Bath New Act of the Year, and West End New Woman Comedian of the Year—firmly establishing her as a rising star to watch.

Fresh, fast-paced, and brilliantly witty, Madeleine is quickly making her mark on the comedy circuit.

Meryl O’Rourke

No Ashbourne Comedy Night would be complete without a brilliant compère to tie it all together—and Meryl O’Rourke is more than up to the task. A true all-rounder, Meryl brings a wealth of experience as an actor, writer, script editor, and stand-up comedian.

Her writing credits include The News Quiz, Frankie Boyle’s New World Order, Bad Mother, and Mock the Week, and she’s earned awards for her own stand-up along the way.

In the host’s spotlight tonight, Meryl will keep the energy high with razor-sharp observations, quick-fire wit, and plenty of audience interaction.

So… best behaviour encouraged—just in case!

A sneak peek of what you can expect from our line-up...