Down the Hatch

Down the Hatch has established itself as a regular fixture in the basement space at Komedia in Brighton. The event focuses on queer and alternative comedy, a format that was recognised with the 'Best Comedy Format' award at the 2024 Chortle Awards. The programme is varied, moving between stand-up, character comedy, drag acts, and ventriloquism. Lee Peart is the resident MC, though the lineup changes from month to month, and you might see other hosts like Sam Lake depending on the specific date. It is a space designed to give visibility to a range of voices within the comedy scene.

The event is strictly for those aged 18 and over and takes place on Sundays. There is some variation in the schedule, with some months seeing it on the first Sunday and others on the second. If you are planning to go, doors open at 18:00 and the show starts at 19:00. The seating is cabaret-style and unreserved, so it is worth arriving early if you have a preference for where you sit. The atmosphere is informal, reflecting the off-the-wall nature of the performances presented on stage.

Regarding the costs, tickets are available through the Komedia website. Prices generally sit between £6 and £12, plus booking fees, with an £8 concession rate available for students. There is also a 'Loaded Fries Ticket' option priced at £18 if you want to include food with your entry. Throughout the season, the club supports local charities including the Allsorts Youth Project, MindOut, and The Brighton Rainbow Fund. You can contribute to these causes during the ticket purchase process or by using the QR codes provided at the venue. It is a straightforward setup that focuses on providing a consistent space for alternative comedy in the city, with the lineup subject to change for each edition.