Trying something new for the first time can be nerve-wracking, and venturing into stand-up comedy is no exception. The world of comedy has made progress in embracing diversity in recent years, but many comedy nights still predominantly feature straight, white cisgender men. For marginalised folks, like those in the LGBTQ+ community, entering these spaces can feel intimidating and alienating.
When I moved to Sheffield in 2021, I knew I wanted to create a different kind of comedy event: one that would provide a safe space for the LGBTQ+ people of Sheffield to enjoy comedy and potentially explore their own comedic talents. Together with my friend Lucy, we pitched an open mic comedy night to DINA, a well-known hub for the LGBTQ+ community in Sheffield (although now sadly closed).
QUACKS was born out of the desire to bring the LGBTQ+ community of Sheffield together to enjoy comedy in an environment where they felt accepted and understood. The night is named after the small rubber ducks we gift to each performer as a token of our appreciation, and it has quickly become a place where everyone – no matter their age, race, sexuality, gender or ability – can feel welcomed and empowered.
We’ve been amazed by the support we’ve received in the year and a half we’ve been running. Attendees of the open mic night have praised the welcoming atmosphere, diverse line-up of acts, and ‘impeccable vibes.’ We’ve even had people travel far and wide for it, with London-based comedian Vix Leyton noting that ‘it was refreshing to have a local queer-centric night to try new stuff out in a safe space. The city is full of great comedy, but this night is very special.’
The success of QUACKS inspired us to take it a step further and create QUEERMAGEDDON, our biggest night yet to celebrate queer comedy around Sheffield. Taking place at Theatre Deli on Arley Street this Saturday 5th August from 7pm, the night will feature talented comedians bringing fresh perspectives on life, providing a platform for queer voices that are often underrepresented.
Lucy Smith-Jones, co-founder of Queer Comedy Sheffield, will host the event, and the lineup will include Emerson Young, Raymond Petty, Taylor Le Fin, Hannah Braggins, Stevie Yardy, Paisley Boyd, and myself, Ella Nobre Watts (also of Queer Comedy Sheffield), who will headline the evening.
After the laughter, we’ll continue the celebration with a DJ set from Nightowls, who can often be found at Sidney & Matilda. This post-show gathering will allow performers and audience members alike to mingle, dance, and connect with the vibrant and proud queer community we’ve cultivated.
Tickets are available on Eventbrite for £15 (no extra fees). Theatre Deli is fully wheelchair accessible, and has a designated Calm Room for anyone needing a space to relax and self-regulate throughout the evening.
If you’re in Sheffield or its surrounding areas and want to experience a night of inclusive laughter and celebration, join us at Theatre Deli on Saturday 5th August. For any enquiries, feel free to contact us at [email protected] or find us on Instagram @queercomedysheffield.
We’re thrilled to showcase the immense talent and spirit of the LGBTQ+ community through comedy. Let’s come together, laugh, and celebrate the collective joy of being queer! And don’t forget to mark your calendars for the return of our open mic night, QUACKS, to Theatre Deli on 28th September.
