XS Malarkey comedy at Platt Chapel

Rapidly approaching its 15th birthday, this particular unruly teen is one of Manchester’s longest running comedy nights, having survived four moves around the Fallowfield area. But it’s not just the students that have kept this gig going: the line-ups over the years have proved themselves to be truly quality. Hosted by Toby Hadoke (pictured) and his tack sharp wit, the gig’s won plenty of awards and can boast the likes of Phill Jupitus, Jason Manford and John Bishop as special surprise guests – amongst many others. The last time I was down there Alun Cochrane had popped in to do 20 minutes to warm up for his Edinburgh show – and he wasn’t even the headline act. This week there’s another one of those surprise guests – and given previous form, you know they’re not bluffing. Hadoke himself is headed to the Edinburgh Fringe to perform his latest solo show, My Stepson Stole My Sonic Screwdriver, so filling in for him will be the glittering (in talent as well as eyeshadow) Jonathan Mayor. So grab a seat in the quiet month before the students come back and bag them all.

Tue 6 Aug and every Tuesday, Platt Chapel, Wilmslow Road, M14 6HA, Tel: 0161 478 4203, 8.30pm, £3 members, £5 non-members, www.xsmalarkey.com