Gavin and Stacey favourite Ruth Jones, comedians David Baddiel and Joe Pasquale and West End legend Ruthie Henshall are among the first names to be announced as being set to sparkle at this year’s Happy Christmas Ipswich extravaganza.
The East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) fundraiser, once again spearheaded by dedicated celebrity patron Griff Rhys Jones, is taking place at the town’s Regent theatre on Monday, 9th December.
Another feast of entertainment is on the cards, with comedian, doctor and broadcaster Paul Sinha also on the bill, along with comedy trio Triple Cream and The Tower Chamber Choir. More big names are set to be confirmed soon.
This year promises to be extra special as there will also be small, simultaneous spin-off shows at comedy clubs in Cambridge and Norwich.
The former is taking place at the Big Deal venue, in Market Passage, and set to star Rory McGrath, Tom Alban and Esther Manito, as well as MC Jason Stampe.
Much-loved comic Joe (Pasquale), meanwhile, is set to start his night at Hooma Comedy, in Dereham Road, Norwich, before hot-footing it down the A140 to join the cast in Ipswich. Joining him on the bill in Norfolk will be John Mann, Tim Fitzhigham and MC Martin Westgate.
Tickets for all three shows are on sale now and more than 800 have already been snapped up for the Ipswich event. Click here to book.
Griff said: “We’re thrilled and excited to be celebrating the fifth anniversary of our Ipswich event, as well as now going out all over the region, hosting simultaneous shows in Cambridge and Norwich.
“It’s going to be a bumper night of festive merriment, with many more names to be confirmed soon. Watch this space!
“Tickets are already selling fast, so get in quick. It’s a way of giving a small Christmas present to an incredible charity – a vital service that is largely paid for by the people of East Anglia.
“EACH does such important and heartbreaking work, so please join us if you can. I look forward to seeing you there!”
EACH Events Manager Becky Redbond is looking forward to another memorable night of entertainment.
“Griff has pulled out the stops once again, assembling another stellar line-up with more big names to follow,” she said.
“The show gets bigger and better every time and this year promises to be extra special, with spin-offs in Cambridge and Norwich.
“As well as providing unforgettable memories, these magical nights raise a phenomenal amount of money – income that goes a long way to helping us continue delivering our vital care and support across East Anglia.
“We couldn’t be more grateful to Griff, the stars who give their time to appear and, of course, the public, who buy tickets and show such incredible support.”
EACH is also keen to hear from any businesses keen to get involved.
There are numerous corporate opportunities, including event sponsorship and involvement in the event brochure. For more details, email corporate@each.org.uk
HAPPY CHRISTMAS IPSWICH ACTS CONFIRMED SO FAR:
Ruth Jones: The Welsh actor, comedian and writer rocketed to fame after co-writing and starring in award-winning BBC sitcom Gavin and Stacey.
The 57-year-old plays much-loved character Nessa Jenkins and one of her co-stars, Rob Brydon, appeared in last year’s Happy Christmas Ipswich show.
Ruth’s other TV credits include Fat Friends, Little Britain, Nighty Night and Stella and she was made an MBE in 2014.
Joe Pasquale: The much-loved comedian is sure to be a big-name attraction in Norwich, before heading to Ipswich. A star of stage and screen, he also won the fourth series of hit ITV show I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! in 2004.
David Baddiel: The comedian, presenter, screenwriter, author and singer shot to fame for his early work alongside Rob Newman in The Mary Whitehouse Experience.
He then became known for his comedy partnership with Frank Skinner and the duo famously teamed up for Euro ’96 football anthem Three Lions.
Ruthie Henshall: Ruthie will be making her second Happy Christmas Ipswich appearance, having previously starred in the 2021 show.
She is one of the best-known names in musical theatre, having appeared in some of the biggest West End shows. Her impressive CV includes appearances in Cats, Chicago, Miss Saigon, Les Miserables, Crazy for You, Oliver!, Guys and Dolls and Billy Elliot the Musical.
Paul Sinha: Paul is a professional quizzer, comedian, doctor and broadcaster. He has written and performed extensively on BBC Radio 4 and is one of the six chasers on ITV game show The Chase.
