The Headliners show returned to The Cock Hotel, Stony Stratford this week (02/04) with a new Wednesday evening slot.
MC David Alfie Ward Kicks Off with High-Energy Stand-Up Comedy
MC David Alfie Ward burst onto the stage demanding attention from the get-go! Immediately involving the audience – some more reluctant than others 😉 – David is a comedian and actor from the East End of London bringing his sharp wit, observational humor, and personal anecdotes to the leafy burbs of MK.
Dismissing the double daters and completely blaming the audience for ‘old‘ jokes, David was a blast of laughs and we look forward to seeing his new barnet on the circuit soonest!
Aside from his stand-up comedy, David is also an ambassador for the mental health charity Mind, and openly addresses important topics such as bipolar disorder and mental wellness. Find out more about this very funny UK comedian on Instagram, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and YouTube.
Musical Comedy with Ashley Frieze Had the Audience in Stitches
The first act was the irrepressible Ashley Frieze, a musical comedian armed with a guitar and a smart lyrical set. He had everyone in tears of laughter throughout.
Larger than life, Ashley barely took a breath as he delivered a brilliant musical comedy set with highlights like James Brown Parenting, the Kaiser Chiefs Cookbook, and Gravy or Jus – some of the more family-friendly lines we’re allowed to share here. Who knew a midweek comedy night would turn into a singalong? It certainly brightened up the week!
Self-described as a “Guitar Wielding Funstar,” Ashley’s style is zany, daring, and slightly risqué (allegedly). He has also been involved in local theatre productions, co-wrote The Musical! at Edinburgh Fringe 2004, and is a published comedy writer.
Catch up with his performances and music on his official site: ashleyfrieze.co.uk
Rising Comedy Talent Lucas Jefcoate Charms the Crowd
The middle section was shared by two acts. First up was Lucas Jefcoate, whose haircut – we must say – is not like an aunt’s (#youhadtobethere).
A stand-up comedian since age 17, Lucas has won accolades like Hastings New Comedian Winner, and was a finalist at Southport New Comedian and Backyard’s Comedy Knockout.
Sadly, no sight of one of his infamous hideous cardigans, but his comedy set about anxiety, asthma, and everyday life was wonderful and relatable.
Lucas’ conversational storytelling style quickly won the crowd over. With stories involving a lesbian Ron Weasley, and giving a Cavewoman the Ick, he delivered laugh-out-loud comedy throughout.
Catch Lucas on tour – dates at www.lucasjefcoate.com
Chris Ali Brings London Diversity and Fresh Energy to Stony Stratford
Second up was Chris Ali, bringing his self-described “London Imported Diversity” to Stony Stratford. With stories of growing up as a twin – “so nice they made him twice” – Chris quickly made an impression.
Though only performing since March 2022, he commanded the stage with confidence and charisma. Host of the OM Comedy Club (@theomcomedyclub), Chris is one of the bright new comedians on the UK comedy scene.
Warm, likeable, and naturally funny, Chris had the room roaring. As he said, he’s on all the apps, even Uber Eats – his joke, not ours!
Check out his gig list on jokepit.com or follow him on Instagram @chris_j_ali.
Headliner Nathan Caton Delivers Hilarious Tales of Family, Love, and Cardigans
Then the headliner – the brilliant Nathan Caton…
A veteran of the UK stand-up comedy circuit, Nathan started at age 19, won Chortle Student Comic of the Year, and has appeared on BBC’s Live at the Apollo and Mock the Week.
Currently touring with The Rocky Horror Picture Show as The Narrator, Nathan also lit up The Comedy Cow’s Milton Keynes stage.
Describing himself as a 6 foot 2 Mummy’s Boy from the mean streets of Middlesex, Nathan delivered a polished and hilarious comedy set.
From growing up and not leaving home until age 32, to the awkwardness of being a stepson and the horrors of parental romance, every punchline landed perfectly.
The Yankee Candle + 40s porn gag left the crowd howling, while his ode to “The Cardigan” – peaceful, heart-melting attire – struck an unexpectedly emotional note.
His closer involving his wife, a parking space, and a profanity-laced moment was sublime.
Catch Nathan on tour with “My Big Fat Blasian Wedding” – help him pay for the catering!
Details at: www.nathancaton.com
Check out all the upcoming shows from The Comedy Cow at www.thecomedycow.co.uk and on all their social pages. There’s something for everyone in the dairy diary including two incredible shows at Milton Keynes Theatre! (5th June and 5th October)
The herd will also be showcasing Fresh Meat at The Venue MK on Thursday April 25th. A brand new style for them giving up and coming comedians the chance to perform on the big stage in MK. Be sure to get involved and support this fantastic new venture.
Reviewed by:
I’m a proud MK resident of over 46 years watching it grow from a new town to a bustling business, social and cultural city.
I work in the NHS and enjoy an eclectic social life exploring everything Milton Keynes has in the diary.
