Question 1

What is Stand Up in the Basement?

Accepted Answer

Stand Up in the Basement is an independent comedy night in Southampton, run by two pals, one of them being your host for the show Colin Owens. We bring pro comics from TV, radio, and the circuit to Heartbreakers and Papillon for proper nights of laughs and all the good vibes.

Question 2

Where are the shows held?

Accepted Answer

We currently run shows at Heartbreakers on Thursdays (7 Hanover Buildings, Southampton SO14 1JW) and Papillon on Fridays (Commercial Road, Southampton SO15 1GQ). Each event page tells you which venue your show is in.

Question 3

How long has Stand Up in the Basement been running?

Accepted Answer

We’ve been running live comedy nights since 2017, originally in the basement of Mango Thai Tapas Bar in Ocean Village.

Question 4

What kind of comedians perform?

Accepted Answer

A mix of familiar TV faces (Live at the Apollo, Mock the Week, Taskmaster, Chortle, Netflix etc.), the best circuit comics, plus fresh talent tipped for stardom. You really don’t need to know the names to have a great night though. You’ll always get top-notch stand up comedy.

Question 5

What’s the vibe?

Accepted Answer

Our shows are laid back, friendly, and full of good energy. Expect a cosy, intimate crowd with big laughs and that buzzy 'we’re all in this together' feel. And our line-ups are reliably funny.

Question 6

Is it seated?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All shows are fully seated. Seats aren’t allocated, so we suggest groups arrive a bit earlier to sit together. If you need seats reserved, just drop us a message and we’ll sort it.

Question 7

What time do doors open?

Accepted Answer

Doors usually open at 7.30pm. Shows start around 8pm and finish at roughly 10.30pm, with two short intervals.

Question 8

Are there intervals?

Accepted Answer

Yes – two quick intervals to grab drinks, stretch your legs, or message the group chat about how funny the last act was.

Question 9

What’s the running time?

Accepted Answer

Around 2.5 hours, including intervals.

Question 10

What’s the show format?

Accepted Answer

Three top-billed acts. You’ll get a compere and opening act, then an interval, then a middle act, another interval, and finally your headliner. On Thursday shows at Heartbreakers, we may swap the middle spot for two newer faces from the comedy scene.

Question 11

Is there food or drink available?

Accepted Answer

Both venues have fully stocked bars. You’re welcome to grab drinks before the show and during intervals. Papillon serves British food, and we're partnered with Mango Thai Tapas so you can get 10% off food before the show.

Question 12

Can I buy tickets on the door?

Accepted Answer

Most shows sell out, so door sales aren’t guaranteed. Best to book online.

Question 13

Is there an age restriction?

Accepted Answer

Shows are 16+, with an adult.

Question 14

What’s your refund policy?

Accepted Answer

Tickets are non-refundable unless the event is cancelled. If you can’t make it, feel free to pass your ticket to a friend who deserves a laugh.

Question 15

Do you offer group deals?

Accepted Answer

Sometimes… yes. Keep an eye on our website and socials for early birds and group promos.

Question 16

Is the venue accessible?

Accepted Answer

Heartbreakers: show is upstairs, only accessible by stairs. Papillon: yes, there is an accessible entrance. If you have access needs, drop us a message.

Question 17

Can I see who’s performing before I book?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Each event page shows the full line-up with photos and links to the comedians’ profiles. If there’s a last-minute change (illness, filming, etc.), we update the listing.

Question 18

How do I contact you?

Accepted Answer

You can message us on Instagram but we are best at replying on email: comedy@standupinthebasement.com

Question 19

Do you sell gift vouchers?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We offer digital gift vouchers you can use towards any Stand Up in the Basement show. Perfect for birthdays, date nights, mate surprises, or the classic 'I had no idea what to buy you so here’s laughter' occasion. You can find vouchers on our website under Gift Vouchers.

Question 20

Will the line-up ever change?

Accepted Answer

Occasionally, yes. Comedians are human too. If someone has to drop out, we replace them with another brilliant act. Quality is never compromised and the show always goes on.

SOUTHAMPTON COMEDY NIGHTS

Comedy FAQS

PRACTICAL INFO ABOUT THE SHOW

Frequently asked questions

When do shows start?

How long does the show last?

How does the night work?

Where are the Friday comedy nights?

Is it seated?

Can I buy food and drinks?

Will the line-up change?

How do tickets work?

Do shows sell out?

ABOUT
STAND UP IN THE BASEMENT

What d'ya wanna know?

What is Stand Up in the Basement?

Where are the shows held?

How long has Stand Up in the Basement been running?

What kind of comedians perform?

What’s the vibe?

Comedy FAQS

PRACTICAL INFO ABOUT THE SHOW

Frequently asked questions

When do shows start?

How long does the show last?

How does the night work?

Where are the Friday comedy nights?

Is it seated?

Can I buy food and drinks?

Will the line-up change?

How do tickets work?

Do shows sell out?

ABOUT STAND UP IN THE BASEMENT

What d'ya wanna know?

What is Stand Up in the Basement?

Where are the shows held?

How long has Stand Up in the Basement been running?

What kind of comedians perform?

What’s the vibe?

ABOUT
STAND UP IN THE BASEMENT