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Colchester Arts Centre is returning to St Botolph’s Priory this weekend for two nights of open-air comedy, following the success of last year’s events at the historic Colchester site.
Ivo Graham will headline tomorrow night, Friday 25th September, with Suzi Ruffell taking over on Saturday 26th September. Both shows feature full supporting line-ups and are being staged by Colchester Arts Centre in partnership with Colchester Events.
Ivo Graham has been performing stand-up since winning So You Think You’re Funny? at the age of 18 and has since become a regular presence on television and radio. His credits include Live at the Apollo, Have I Got News for You, QI, Mock the Week and The Last Leg, while in 2023 he appeared as a contestant on Channel 4’s Taskmaster. His first book, Yardsticks for Failure, was published in 2025, and he returned to the Edinburgh Fringe this year with his new stand-up show Orange Crush.
Joining Ivo Graham on Friday will be MC Kelly Convey, Kyrah Gray and Peter Rethinasamy.
Suzi Ruffell has also built an extensive career in television, radio, and live performance, with appearances on Live at the Apollo, The Jonathan Ross Show, Mock the Week, and The Last Leg. She hosts the OUT with Suzi Ruffell podcast and co-hosts Big Kick Energy with Maisie Adam. Her debut book, Am I Having Fun Now?, became a Sunday Times bestseller following its publication in 2025, and she is currently touring her latest stand-up show, The Juggle.
Saturday’s supporting line-up features Dom McGovern, Elliot Steel and Jamie D’Souza.
Colchester Arts Centre said: “We’re delighted to be working with Colchester Events again to bring two nights of open-air comedy to St Botolph’s Priory. Our comedy nights always go down a treat in our church setting, so we thought, why not take comedy outdoors and into the leafy surrounds of this ancient Priory? St Botolph’s is a beautiful space and works surprisingly well for outdoor events. We’re looking forward to bringing some great comedy to a unique setting.”
The shows will take place in the grassy grounds of St Botolph’s Priory, next to Colchester Town railway station. Gates open at 6pm on both evenings, with comedy starting at 7pm and finishing at approximately 9.30pm.
There is no seating provided, so audiences are being asked to bring folding chairs, benches or blankets. Food and soft drinks can also be brought onto the site, although alcohol cannot be taken in. A bar will be open during both evenings.
As outdoor events, the shows will go ahead in the rain unless conditions are considered dangerous, so waterproofs might be worth adding to the list alongside the picnic blanket. Step-free access to the site will be available.
Tickets for both nights are £26.50, plus booking fee, via Colchester Arts Centre.
