On Friday, September 26, the popular comedy night Live Next To The Apollo will celebrate its second anniversary with a special gig featuring Thor Stenhaug, Jeff Innocent, Darren Harriott, and a surprise guest to be revealed.
Since its launch in 2023, Live Next To The Apollo has skyrocketed to become one of London’s premier comedy events, consistently selling out and attracting a devoted local audience. This past summer, it generated over a million views on Instagram. Hosted and curated by TV producer Jonathan Stadlen, the night has showcased more than 200 of the UK’s best comedians, from promising newcomers to established stars. Tickets are priced at just £12 on Fridays, with all profits going directly to the performers, a transparent model that has garnered immense respect within the industry.
In celebration of its second anniversary, Live Next To The Apollo has announced ambitious expansion plans. Starting in early 2026, the show aims to increase the frequency of its performances at Riverside Studios to meet growing demand, while also touring larger venues and festivals across the South East. This means bringing their unique blend of warmth, affordability, and top-quality comedy to new towns such as Bromley, Kingston, Berkhamsted, Henley-on-Thames, and Tunbridge Wells.
Jonathan Stadlen expressed his excitement: “It’s been an amazing two years. We aimed to create a friendly and welcoming comedy experience that supports both audiences and performers — and the response has exceeded all my expectations. I can’t wait to celebrate this milestone at Riverside and share the Live Next To The Apollo experience with even more people this autumn and next year.”
In addition to the anniversary special, Live Next To The Apollo will host a full month of comedy at Riverside Studios, featuring a lineup that combines beloved TV personalities with rising stars. September’s highlights include Paul Tonkinson (from Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow), Laura Smyth (Live at the Apollo, Jonathan Ross’ Comedy Club), and Stephen Bailey (Celebs Go Dating, Unbreakable), as well as buzzworthy acts from Edinburgh like Michelle Shaughnessy and Joe Sutherland, all culminating in the big birthday celebration on September 26.
