Stuart McPherson: Crisps and a Lie Down

Stuart McPherson is bringing his show, Crisps and a Lie Down, to Brighton this spring. You might recognise him as a lead in BBC Scotland’s Scot Squad or from his podcast Some Laugh, but this performance is a more personal, autobiographical look at his life. After a successful run at the Edinburgh Fringe, he is touring this set which focuses on the specific, often cynical, experience of navigating your thirties. It isn't just a standard microphone-and-stool setup; the show is known for using visual and sound effects to punctuate his stories, adding a different layer to the usual stand-up format.

The material covers the transition into a more settled existence, touching on long-term relationships and the shift in priorities that comes with age. Stuart McPherson talks quite openly about masculinity and mental health, but he balances these heavier themes with observations on generational gaps and his upbringing in Fife. A recurring theme in the show is his relationship with his "step-dog"—his partner's pet that seems to have more control over his life than he does. It’s a reflection on the realities of "settling down" and the looming questions about starting a family, all delivered with the dry wit he’s become known for in the Scottish comedy scene.

The event is set for Thursday, 7 May 2026, at Komedia in the North Laine. It’s being held in the Studio space, which usually offers a more intimate setting for this kind of observational comedy. Doors are scheduled to open at 21:00, and the performance begins at 21:30. Since the show deals with adult themes and the complexities of modern maturity, there is an age restriction of 16 plus. Tickets are available for £14.00, and the venue is located at 44-47 Gardner Street, making it a central option if you are looking for something to do on a Thursday night in the city.