Dutch Barn Vodka’s Spirit of Comedy brings a £5,000 prize to Lions Den

Next Wednesday, Manchester’s emerging comedy hopefuls are preparing to take the mic at Lions Den, as Dutch Barn Vodka’s Spirit of Comedy competition returns for another round of live stand-up, audience verdicts and a £5,000 cash prize.

Taking place on from 7pm, the event puts 14 acts in front of a crowd who will help decide which performer has the chops to become Britain’s next comedy star.

Following the competition’s successful debut in 2025, this year’s event brings a fresh line-up of aspiring comedians to Great Northern’s live music and entertainment venue, with every act vying for the cash prize and a place in the established comedy firmament. Presented by Ricky Gervais’ popular spirit brand, the evening also comes with a complimentary ready-to-drink cocktail for every ticket holder, while audience prizes are up for grabs throughout the night.

Punters on the night will have a more active role than simply deciding when to laugh, with voting through the Slido app helping to determine the outcome. Applause paddles and a Laugh-o-Meter will keep reactions in check across a diverse spectrum of comic riffs, bits and routines, from the creatively inspired to the gleefully tasteless.

Book tickets below.