The Secret Comedy Club Wednesdays

The Secret Comedy Club Wednesdays is back at artista on Wednesday 23 December, with Stephen Carlin on the bill. It's a mid-week night that's become a bit of a Brighton staple, and this one falls right in the middle of the Christmas break, so it's a handy way to get out of the house when most of the city is winding down for the holidays.

The format is what makes it work. You'll get around seven acts across three lively sections, with two breaks in between. That structure gives the established names enough room to work through fresh material, while the up-and-coming acts use the night to try and secure a spot at the club's weekend shows. It's a good mix to have in one room: the polished sets from the regulars and the raw, new stuff from the newcomers, all on the same bill.

One thing that sets it apart from a lot of other comedy nights is the strict no-heckling policy. It keeps the room friendly and focused on the stage, which makes it one of the city's more inclusive independent venues. If you're the kind of person who prefers to just sit back and laugh rather than shout over the act, this is exactly your sort of night.

artista is a cafe and gallery on Brighton Square, so it's easy to find right in the centre. The show runs from 20:00 to 22:30, and tickets are £6.50. It's a 16+ event, and the organisers suggest arriving 15 to 30 minutes before the start, as no refunds are given for late arrivals. If you're heading in from across town, that's a good rule of thumb to keep in mind.