The Cat Laughs Comedy Festival

Various venus, Kilkenny Thurs 2nd-Mon 6th thecat laughs.com 056-7763837

There’s been a slight change of emphasis at the Cat Laughs Festival, with the old “stand up” only rule being bent to incorporate a wider variety of shows.

Coming in under the “Variety” section this year, for example, is the wonderful Horne Section, a jazz-comedy mash-up that never does what it says on the tin and, as such, is one of this year’s must-sees.

The strong Irish line-up this year includes Tommy Tiernan, Jason Byrne, Ardal O’Hanlon, David O’Doherty (below), Paddy Courtney and Barry Murphy. But do give the out-of-towners a look as well. From the UK there’s the fabulous new talent Roisin Conaty, along with the more established Sarah Millican and the always entertaining Greg Davis. And don’t miss cult US comic Bo Burnham.