20th Anniversary

20th Anniversary

Dear Slapstick supporters,

I can hardly believe it’s been 21 years since we first set out to share the magic of silent and visual comedy with audiences in Bristol and beyond.

As we celebrate this incredible milestone we have an extraordinary series of events planned, featuring classic screen comedy, music, and beloved figures from the world of comedy and culture. Our focus in on satire and references to satirical comedy can be found throughout the programme. This year, we’re thrilled to welcome a line up that reads like a comedy who’s who, including: Harry Enfield, Martin Freeman, Sanjeev Bhaskar, Myra Syal, Ben Elton, Stephen K Amos, Adam Hills and Nigel Planer.

Alongside historians and experts Polly Rose, Pamela Hutchinson, and Samira Ahmed, all these great talents and supporters bring fresh insights and passion to our lineup. Regular attendees will know that music has always been at the heart of Slapstick, and we are again joined by a remarkable array of talented musicians including keyboard legend Rick Wakeman, all led by our musical director, maestro Günter A. Buchwald.

Our flagship event is the Silent Comedy Gala, this year hosted by Martin Freeman and featuring the big screen outing of Buster Keaton’s finest: Steamboat Bill, Jr. (1928) with a live improvised ‘score’ by the European Silent Screen Virtuosi and an array of surprises, including vocal harmonies from The Matinee Idles.

Chris Daniels