Fresh from a national tour supporting top-comedian Russell Kane, Omar Hamdi will be headlining the comedy stage. Omar is a high-energy, affable Welsh-Egyption comic who makes the personal political and the political personal, with a disarming every-man charm – it’s definitely a must-see.
Also on the bill is Ian Cognito the undecorated hero of the alternative British comedy frontline. He’s treaded the boards for over thirty years and is uncompromising in his anti-fame game, what’s certain is that he will leave festival-goers reeling in hysterical laughter.
Acclaimed stand-up comic and accomplished TV writer Meryl O’Rourke will also be gracing the comedy stage. A potty mouthed potty trainer, she has delighted comedy audiences, written some of the best gags on TV and even hosted pop concerts.
The Fling attracts a wide range of talent, and you may have seen Leopold Alexander, also known as The Mighty Moustache, on Britain’s Got Talent, but now this sportsman, strongman, circus artist, adventurer and all round paragon of gentlemanly conduct will be taking to the Comedy and Cabaret stage at this year’s Fling.
Many of the cabaret artists continue the comedy themes, such as award winning Ria Lina who has been entertaining both UK and international audiences with her dry wit and the occasional song for over a decade. Her charm and intelligence allows her to get away with anything from the most audacious routines to subtle wordplay.
Since meeting in 2000, Brian Damage and Krystal have entertained and delighted all kinds of audiences in locations far and wide. Brian is grumpy and deadpan, while his assistant Krystal is glamorous but ditzy. Their unconventional vaudeville-style act is punctuated by silly songs, the odd bit of Spanish dancing, loads of jokes and a lot of laughs.
Josephine Shaker, a scintillating syncopate of hot beats, a whirling dervish of charm and an utter dancefloor delight, will be hot-footing her way to this year’s festival. She’s one of London’s most in demand tap dancers and her comically chaotic style infuses her tap performances with a fresh interpretation on the ancient art of hoofing.
Last but not least The Fling presents the impeccably grammatical Neil McFarlane, a favourite on the Scottish circuit and self-proclaimed ‘posh Glaswegian’, he is one to look out for.
Standard tickets cost from £25, VIP £38, Camping £45 and are available from the Festival Box Office on 01245 606 505 or via www.FlingFestival.com
