A new comedy club is launching in Ipswich thanks to comedian and actor Omid Djalili who hopes to create a "platform to express ideas in a comedic way".
The first stand-up comedy evening called Tractor and Kebab will take place on June 8 at DanceEast on the Waterfront.
Mr Djalili explained the name of his show: "It’s tractor because of Ipswich, and kebab because of me, as simple as that.
"Kebab is my national dish and my favourite food, so our aim is to bring this kind of diversity, thought, views, and comedy to Suffolk.
"Tractor and Kebab is the perfect dual symbol for what we're trying to achieve."
The monthly comedy club will be inviting "the funniest people in Britain" to talk about the discourse of the day.
Mr Djalili added that he hopes to also develop some new comedy voices within Ipswich.
He said: "When you have a comedy club in an area, it develops thoughts and concepts.
It becomes a platform to express ideas in a comedic way. "I’ve been living in Suffolk for two and a half years now, so I can say that people here are very funny and have a great sense of humor."
The first night of Ipswich comedy club will see stand-ups from Omid Djalili, Mike Gunn, Jenan Younis and Boothby Graffoe.
The organiser added: "It’s going to be a strong night, two hours of comedy. "The club is taking place on Thursday night, which I think is good, as not many people do much on a Thursday night. I’m happy that some fun will be happening then.
"I hope to develop this idea and soon announce dates and names for the next shows."
The monthly comedy club is funded by the University of Suffolk.
Its vice-chancellor, Helen Langton, said: "We are delighted that the University of Suffolk is working in partnership with high-profile comedian Omid Djalili to launch a new monthly stand-up comedy club night for Ipswich.
"Since moving to Ipswich, Omid has been a keen supporter of the University and recently chaired our first Spotlight Suffolk event which debated the future of Ipswich and its potential to become a city.
"Ipswich has a vibrant art and culture scene from comedy and theatre to art and community activities and we look forward to the Tractor & Kebab stand-up night becoming a popular fixture on the town’s exciting calendar of events."
Book tickets here.
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