Russell Hicks: This Time It’s Personal

Next week, the American stand-up comedian Russell Hicks is bringing his new show, This Time It’s Personal, to Brighton. The date to mark is Thursday, February 5, 2026, and the venue is the familiar The Forge Comedy Club at Ironworks Studios (30 Cheapside, BN1 4GD). This performance is part of a wider UK tour, but for us locals, it’s a chance to see the comedian known for his quick wit and improvisation in a more intimate setting. The title suggests a shift in focus from his previous material; while last year he was talking about his life in the UK, this new performance is centered squarely on Hicks himself, promising a deeper dive into his own experiences.

Hicks has been having a busy year, which gives context to why he’s on the road. He’s an established name in the comedy circuit, having been nominated twice for the Leicester Festival Best Show and winning the Prague Fringe Festival in 2024. If you follow comedy online, you might recognize him from his popular 'Dear Diary' series on Instagram, which has racked up millions of views. Beyond the stage, he’s also been involved in film and TV, with credits including appearances on ITV, BBC, Channel 4, and even a role in Edgar Wright’s upcoming 2025 film, The Running Man. This background suggests the kind of polished, yet spontaneous, performance you can expect from the show, which is being organized locally by Funny That Comedy.

If you plan on going, the show starts at 20:00 (8:00 PM), though doors open an hour earlier at 19:00. They recommend arriving by 19:45 to get seated, as all seating is unreserved. The performance runs for about an hour and forty-five minutes, including an interval. Tickets are currently priced at £19.31 and can be booked online via Eventbrite. It’s worth noting the age restriction: the event is strictly 16+, and anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult (with a limit of two minors per adult). For those needing accessibility, the venue is fully equipped. This Brighton date kicks off a run that includes stops later in February in places like The Lowry and Royal & Derngate, so catching him here next month is the local opportunity.