The Secret Comedy Club Fridays

Tucked away at 42 Brighton Square in the middle of The Lanes, Artista Cafe & Gallery serves as the home for The Secret Comedy Club Fridays. It is a notably small, independent venue with a capacity of only about 20 people, which creates a different sort of environment than the bigger comedy circuits. The club has some history in the local scene, having won the Audience Choice Award for best Fringe venue in 2021, and it consistently ranks well in local reviews. Because the space is so compact, the experience is quite close-up, and they often have to adjust their schedule or setup during the Brighton Fringe to accommodate the extra footfall.

The evening is structured around a weekly rotating lineup, so the acts change every time you go. Usually, a resident MC hosts the night, introducing four or five different comedians, ranging from emerging talent to established headliners who have been seen on programmes like Live at the Apollo. The show officially starts at 20:00, but doors open at 19:00 to make use of a Happy Hour that lasts until 19:30. With two intervals included to grab a drink or stretch your legs, the whole thing wraps up between 22:20 and 22:30. They maintain a very strict no-heckling policy, which is worth noting if you prefer a comedy environment where the focus remains entirely on the stage without interruptions from the crowd.

If you are planning to head down, tickets are cheaper if bought in advance. While a spot at the door will cost £25—assuming they haven't sold out—online prices range from £11 for concessions to £22 for general entry, with an early bird option at £19.25. There is some conflicting information regarding age restrictions, with some sources stating 18+ and others allowing 16+ if accompanied by an adult, so it is something to keep in mind depending on who you are going with. Given the 20-seat limit, getting there closer to 19:00 is usually the best way to ensure you get a seat and settle in before the first act begins.