Slapstick Festival 2026 brought together more than 30 events across five days, reaffirming Bristol’s reputation as one of the world’s leading destinations for classic and contemporary screen comedy.
Audiences enjoyed an ambitious programme spanning silent cinema, television, stand-up, film, live music and conversations with many of Britain’s most respected comedy performers and creators.
The festival’s centrepiece, the Silent Comedy Gala, once again demonstrated the enduring appeal of silent film on the big screen, with live accompaniment from Rick Wakeman and the European Silent Screen Virtuosi. Across the programme, audiences celebrated the timeless brilliance of Laurel & Hardy, explored the work of Alexei Sayle, Lee Mack and Armando Iannucci, and discovered a wide range of specially curated screenings and events.
A particular highlight was the presentation of the inaugural Golden Baz Award to Armando Iannucci, recognising his outstanding contribution to comedy and satire.
Guided by the theme “…because laughter is a form of resistance,” the festival celebrated comedy not only as entertainment but as an art form that connects people, challenges assumptions and brings audiences together across generations. Once again, Slapstick demonstrated that the shared experience of laughter remains as powerful and relevant today as it has ever been.
Chris Daniels
Festival Director
Slapstick Festival
17-07-2026