Comedian Tim Vine has been confirmed as the first act set to appear at this year’s Happy Christmas Ipswich spectacular – with tickets going on general sale today.
The comedy and music extravaganza, hosted by East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) with help from dedicated celebrity patron Griff Rhys Jones, is taking place at The Ipswich Regent on Thursday, 4th December.
Tickets are now on general sale, and the first name on what promises to be a star-studded bill is popular funnyman Tim, known for his puns, one-liners, witty songs and bag of props.
The 58-year-old, also an actor, writer and presenter, starred in BBC comedy Not Going Out and held the Guinness World Record for the most jokes told in an hour, between 2004 and 2014. He won awards at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 2010 and 2014.
“We’re thrilled to be back and excited to be able to confirm our first acts for this year’s show,” said Ali Butler, EACH’s Senior Community Fundraiser for Suffolk.
“Tim’s unique brand of quickfire comedy is sure to prove a hit, and this announcement is a great way to celebrate tickets going on general sale.
“We’re also thrilled to share the news that Suffolk’s very own, amazing, Royal Hospital School Drummers will be joining us this year.
“Happy Christmas Ipswich is always a magical event on our fundraising calendar, and this year’s show will be no different.
“It’ll be bigger and better than ever, with a few surprises along the way, and more star names will follow in the coming weeks.”
Last year’s show starred Gavin and Stacey favourite Ruth Jones, as well as comedians David Baddiel, Omid Djalili and Joe Pasquale. It smashed new ground after raising a record-breaking £146,500.
The bill also included West End and Broadway legend Ruthie Henshall, comedian, doctor and broadcaster Paul Sinha, impressionist Jon Culshaw and comedian Nathan Caton.
“We’ve now had five resoundingly successful shows, and none of it would be possible without Griff’s support,” said Ali.
“He brings such energy and has a burning, insatiable desire to put on the best show possible every single year.
“I’m in awe of him, and it’s extraordinary to think these shows have raised more than £500,000, since the first in 2019.
“It’s eye-watering, at a time when funding challenges couldn’t be tougher, and makes a monumental difference to our vital work.”
Griff’s first Happy Christmas Ipswich event was in 2019 and featured the likes of Al Murray and Lee Mack. It raised £72,000.
After a hiatus due to Covid, the show returned in 2021 and starred Eddie Izzard, Johnny Vegas, Stephen Fry, Clive Anderson and Ruthie Henshall. Tickets sold out within 48 hours of the line-up being confirmed and it raised a staggering £92,000.
The 2022 show, which raised £106,000, proved another colossal success. Another sell-out, the impressive cast list included Bill Bailey, Jon Culshaw, Rory McGrath and Milton Jones.
The following year’s show raised £134,500 and featured a host of household names, including Dara Ó Briain, Dame Joanna Lumley, Rob Brydon and world-renowned keyboard player Rick Wakeman.
December’s show promises to be extra special as it will be the first performance since a major redevelopment project at the Regent.
The work, ongoing now, includes a new single-storey extension, improved accessibility and refurbished facilities. The theatre, which has a capacity of 1,551, has been closed since May.
Happy Christmas Ipswich 6 is being supported by headline sponsor Richard Johnston Ltd.
To buy tickets for Happy Christmas Ipswich 6, head here.
