The Rik Mayall Comedy Festival is a volunteer-run festival based around the Norbury Theatre in Droitwich Spa, where Rik’s parents produced plays and where Rik made his first on-stage appearances.
After a SMASHING first year, the chaos will return from 29 May to 6 June 2026. The festival will feature a diverse range of big name performances, screenings, panel events and workshops in celebration of Rik’s remarkable life and career.
These individually-ticketed curated events will underpin a HUGE open fringe festival across the town, supporting the local community and bringing new customers to local businesses. A free pop-up museum will again focus on Rik’s influential body of work.
Photo credit: Andy Hollingworth
Why is Droitwich Spa the location for the festival?
Rik Mayall moved to Droitwich at the age of three and grew up in the town. He worked and performed at the Norbury Theatre, where his love of comedy and acting first developed. The festival honours his connection to the town while supporting the local community and bringing new visitors to local businesses.
How does the festival celebrate Rik Mayall’s legacy?
The festival is designed to honour Rik’s influence on comedy while supporting emerging and established talent. It features:
The festival is also supported by Rik’s family, with profits reinvested into future events or donated to the Norbury Theatre.
Who is organising the festival?
The festival is organised by Droitwich Spa Comedy Festival – a Community Interest Company on a not-for-profit basis. All committee members are volunteers, supported by the Norbury Theatre, Wychavon District Council, Visit Worcestershire, local businesses and community leaders.
When do tickets go on sale?
Tickets will be on sale in spring 2026. Watch this space!
Where can I buy tickets, and how much do they cost?
Tickets for all events will be available from our website. Prices will vary depending on the event and venue.
Is there a limit on how many tickets I can purchase?
For some events at the Norbury Theatre a maximum ticket limit of 2 per person per show may be implemented due to the intimate nature of the venue.
Will more tickets be released later?
Additional tickets for other acts, fringe events, and workshops will be released in the lead-up to the festival. Stay updated via the official website and social media.
Are there any free events or activities at the festival?
The festival includes a free pop-up museum showcasing Rik Mayall’s career and community performances as part of the fringe festival. Free family-friendly activities will take place throughout the town during the weekends. Some workshops, talks, and performances will also be free to attend. Some events will ask for donations or offer entry on a pay-what-you-want basis.
What types of performances and events will take place?
The festival will include:
Are there any age restrictions for certain events?
Some performances will have age restrictions due to adult content, while others (including family-friendly screenings and workshops) will be open to all ages. Check event listings for details.
How is the festival supporting young people in comedy and theatre?
The festival aims to fund youth theatre programmes at the Norbury Theatre and provides workshops for aspiring comedians and actors. It also gives emerging comedians a platform through an open fringe festival.
What role does Rik Mayall’s family play in the festival?
Rik’s family are supportive of the festival as a fitting tribute to his legacy and have given their blessing for it to go ahead. They are consulted on major decisions.
How will the festival benefit local businesses?
The festival is very keen to support and involve local businesses. It will attract visitors from across the country, bringing more customers to local pubs, cafes, restaurants, and shops, boosting the local economy. Get in touch via our contact form if you would like your business to be involved.
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Event applications now open for 2026!
Talking to the Box Office...