Black History Month stand-up special celebrating Black excellence in British comedy, with Slim, Richard Blackwood, Robbie Gee and more at Hackney Empire.
Pioneers of Comedy 2026 comes to Hackney Empire on Saturday 24 October, a Black History Month special that puts the older guard of Black British comedy on the same bill as the newer generation. It's hosted by Eddie Nestor (MBE) and Robbie Gee, and the line-up runs deep: Slim, Richard Blackwood, Rudi Lickwood, Kojo Anim, Toju, Kyrah Gray, Diesel and Bamph.
The night is built around the people who paved the way. The Black British comedy circuit grew out of independent nights and community venues at a time when mainstream opportunities were thin, and this show traces that history across stand-up, television, radio and theatre. The choice of Hackney Empire fits the bill — a historic London theatre that's hosted generations of performers from across Britain's diverse communities. Humour is the common thread, used to talk about race, family, relationships, identity and everyday Black British life.
Much of the weight comes from the long careers on the bill. Slim has been working since 1993 and was the first Black British act to play the Hollywood Comedy Store. Richard Blackwood also started in 1993, before becoming a regular on EastEnders and Hollyoaks. Rudi Lickwood began in 1987 as one of the first Black comedians on the BBC's The Stand Up Show, and Kojo Anim has opened for Dave Chappelle and Kevin Hart. They're joined by Toju, Kyrah Gray, Diesel and Bamph, so the night balances those decades of experience with newer names.
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Doors open at 6:30pm and the show starts at 7:30pm. Tickets are £38 or £34 in the Stalls, £34 or £30 in the Dress Circle, £27 in the Upper Circle and £18 in the Gallery.
