Britain's What's On Event Guide
Laughter to the Rafters
The Passage's flagship comedy fundraiser, Laughter to the Rafters, returns to the Hackney Empire for a second year, bringing together some of the biggest names in British comedy to raise vital funds to support people experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
Taking place on Monday 21st September 2026, the event promises another unforgettable evening of laughter, with a stellar line-up of award-winning comedians performing for one night only.
This year's line-up includes:
Dara Ó Briain- one of the UK and Ireland's most celebrated comedians, renowned for his quick wit, razor-sharp audience interaction and sell-out tours.
Ed Byrne - a comedy favourite whose intelligent observations and relatable storytelling have made him a household name.
Sara Pascoe- bestselling author, broadcaster and one of Britain's most popular comedians.
Sarah Keyworth - critically acclaimed and award-winning stand-up known for their distinctive voice and brilliantly crafted comedy.
Janine Harouni- internationally acclaimed stand-up whose sharp, insightful comedy has earned praise on both sides of the Atlantic.
Laura Lexx - Regular TV panellist as seen on Live at the Apollo, Mock the Week, Roast Battle, Celebrity Mastermind and Hypothetical.
The evening will once again be hosted by the dynamic Leslie Gold, ensuring the laughs keep coming from start to finish.
Dara Ó Briain, Ambassador of The Passage, said: There are limits to what comedy can do. It might not win a by-election, and it certainly isn't the best medicine. That'd be antibiotics. However what comedy can do is give a little helping hand to people doing great work. The Passage has been changing lives for decades, helping people facing homelessness find support, stability and hope. We're going to have a fantastic night of laughs at Hackney Empire, and every ticket sold helps make that work possible. Come along, enjoy the show, and help make a real difference.
Taking place on Monday 21st September 2026, the event promises another unforgettable evening of laughter, with a stellar line-up of award-winning comedians performing for one night only.
This year's line-up includes:
Dara Ó Briain- one of the UK and Ireland's most celebrated comedians, renowned for his quick wit, razor-sharp audience interaction and sell-out tours.
Ed Byrne - a comedy favourite whose intelligent observations and relatable storytelling have made him a household name.
Sara Pascoe- bestselling author, broadcaster and one of Britain's most popular comedians.
Sarah Keyworth - critically acclaimed and award-winning stand-up known for their distinctive voice and brilliantly crafted comedy.
Janine Harouni- internationally acclaimed stand-up whose sharp, insightful comedy has earned praise on both sides of the Atlantic.
Laura Lexx - Regular TV panellist as seen on Live at the Apollo, Mock the Week, Roast Battle, Celebrity Mastermind and Hypothetical.
The evening will once again be hosted by the dynamic Leslie Gold, ensuring the laughs keep coming from start to finish.
Dara Ó Briain, Ambassador of The Passage, said: There are limits to what comedy can do. It might not win a by-election, and it certainly isn't the best medicine. That'd be antibiotics. However what comedy can do is give a little helping hand to people doing great work. The Passage has been changing lives for decades, helping people facing homelessness find support, stability and hope. We're going to have a fantastic night of laughs at Hackney Empire, and every ticket sold helps make that work possible. Come along, enjoy the show, and help make a real difference.
Monday 21 September
Hackney Empire, 291 Mare Street, London E8 1EJ
Date: Monday 21st September 2026Time: Doors 6:30pm | Show 7:30pm
Venue: Hackney Empire, 291 Mare Street, London E8 1EJ
Tickets: £22-£32 (plus £1.50 online booking fee)
This event is generously sponsored by Qube Research & Technologies (QRT).
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