This September, Newport’s The Riverfront Theatre & Arts Centre starts a brand-new relationship with Soho Theatre, London’s most vibrant venue for new theatre, comedy and cabaret. Once a month The Riverfront’s Studio Theatre will open its doors and welcome some of the most exciting and fresh comedy stars on the UK and international circuit, hand-picked by Soho Theatre.
The first stars making their Newport debut in September (Friday 20) will be Bourgeois and Maurice (pictured above) with their show Momento Mori. Described as being a ‘philosophicLOL cabaret about the meaning of life,’ the award-winning musical duo will delve deep into a world of hyper glamour and pitch-black comedy song writing. The world may appear to be in a state of chaos but this sequin-clad duo have written many a catchy tune and witty rhyme ready to entertain the people of Newport, so we should all be okay.

Cassie Workman comes to Newport’s Riverfront Theatre on October 23, 2019.
In October (Wednesday 23) The Riverfront will welcome Cassie Workman, perhaps the most experienced newcomer to the comedy world given the fact she once performed under a different name. Winner of the ‘Best Newcomer’ award at the Melbourne International Comedy festival, ‘Best Comedy’ at the Adelaide Fringe and ‘Director’s Choice’ at the Sydney Comedy Festival, Cassie has recently returned to the stage after beginning her transition. Her brand-new show Giantess will interweave music, comedy, storytelling and illustration while exploring the anguish of coming to terms with a gender identity that doesn’t match your body. Over the summer this show was nominated for the Melbourne International Comedy Award for Most Outstanding Show.

Kai Samra Underclass comes to Newport’s Riverfront Theatre on November 15, 2019.
For November (Friday 15) Soho Theatre will present Kai Samra: Underclass, who audiences may recognise from appearances on ITV2, BBC3 and the BBC Asian Network. This will be the award-winning stand-up comedians hotly tipped debut hour. In the show he will hilariously dissect life as a young working class British Asian in the 21st century, ranging from police stop and searches, to a complete lack of options at fancy dress parties. Prepare to also hear personal stories of homelessness, the gentrification of the arts, and the rise of right-wing politics in his hometown.

Janine Harouni comes to Newport’s Riverfront Theatre on December 6, 2019.
The Riverfront’s final show from Soho Theatre in the autumn season will be Stand Up with Janine Harouni (Please Remain Seated) (Friday 6 December). Winner of the Laughing Horse New Act of the Year 2018, Janine’s show is all about standing up for what you believe in, even if you must do it nicely! Her father is a lifelong New Yorker and son of Middle Eastern immigrants. He’s also an avid Donald Trump supporter. Attempting to reconcile those things makes for one tense Sunday dinner, and a very interesting debut show in Newport.
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To book tickets for the above events call 01633 656757 or visit tickets.newportlive.co.uk.