Ever since Birmingham was designated Rock ‘n’ Roll Capital of Britain, journalists have tried to source an equivalent for comedy. Problem is, every UK city has had a ‘comedy great’ born within its boundaries: Birmingham itself gave us Tony Hancock, Newcastle had Bobby Thompson, Southampton had Benny Hill. Even a small town in Wales – Caerphilly – is proud to have produced Tommy Cooper. And as for Liverpool – well, everyone is funny from Liverpool, aren’t they?

But there is a stretch of road that weaves through south London which is more important to the world of laughter than any one place. It is the A23. Well, a small part of it: the five and a half miles from Westminster Bridge to Streatham. Within that short distance, there are 230 years-worth of fortunes, adventures and anecdotes from British comedy to be found.

Comedian Andre Vincent will be our guide as he shows us the important places and the principal people from the world of comedy who lived and performed along this historic route. He’ll present the origin of the ringed circus, the advent of music hall, the heart of Variety, and the birthplaces and homes of some of comedy’s greatest performers, all along the 159 bus route.

Doors open at 18.30, for a 19.30 start.

Refreshments will be available in our licenced cafe/bar.

TICKETS & PRICING

Autumn Season 2015 ticketing applies.

Advance tickets may be purchased from Billetto, or direct from the Museum by calling 020 7840 2200 in office hours.