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12 Legendary Comedians Who Launched Their Careers At Up The Creek Comedy Club (And What's On Now In 2025)

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For over three decades, Up The Creek Comedy Club in Greenwich, London, has been an undisputed crucible of British stand-up, a venue where comedic legends are forged under the harshest lights. As of December 2025, the club continues its legacy, hosting a mix of seasoned headliners and raw, hungry newcomers fighting for stage time. It remains a mandatory stop on the international comedy circuit, renowned for its electric atmosphere and, most famously, its brutal open mic night, "The Blackout." This article dives into the club's storied history, its current must-see events, and the definitive list of A-list talent who owe their start to this legendary venue.

Located on Creek Road, this venue isn't just a London comedy club; it’s an institution. Founded by the infamous Malcolm Hardee, Up The Creek has maintained a reputation for being one of the toughest yet most rewarding stages for any comic. The club’s influence extends far beyond its Greenwich walls, shaping the careers of countless comedians who now headline arenas worldwide. From its weekly open mic to its star-studded weekend shows, the club is a living piece of comedy history that remains vibrant and essential today.

The Founder and The Birth of a London Comedy Institution

The story of Up The Creek begins with its eccentric and brilliant founder, Malcolm Hardee. Hardee, a legendary comedian and promoter known for his chaotic and unique approach to life and comedy, established the club in 1991. Located in an old church hall on Creek Road, Greenwich, the venue quickly became known for its raw, unfiltered energy, a direct reflection of Hardee's own personality.

Hardee was a pivotal figure in the London comedy scene, and his vision was to create a space that was both a proving ground for new talent and a reliable stage for established acts. The club’s longevity—spanning over 30 years—is a testament to the powerful, enduring format he created. Although Hardee passed away, his spirit lives on, making Up The Creek one of the most famous comedy clubs in the world and a place every comedian, at any stage of their career, aspires to perform.

The Blackout: The Toughest Open Mic in the World

The club's most infamous and talked-about event is "The Blackout." This weekly Thursday night show is not for the faint of heart; it is the ultimate test of a comedian's mettle, operating as a high-stakes open mic night.

The format is simple but brutal: comics take the stage, and the audience has the power to vote them off. This "gong show" style format means that new comedians must perform to real, paying punters, not just other comics, with a very short grace period—often just two minutes—before they can be disqualified by the crowd. Surviving The Blackout is considered a rite of passage on the stand-up circuit, a clear sign that a comedian can handle any room, anywhere. It’s a guaranteed night of raw, unpredictable, and often hilarious entertainment for the audience.

The A-List: 12 Comedians Forged at Up The Creek

Up The Creek’s reputation is built on the sheer volume of world-class talent that has graced its stage. The club has consistently attracted and nurtured future superstars, making a trip to Greenwich a constant gamble on seeing the next big thing. The venue even won the inaugural Chortle Award for Best Large Venue in 2002, cementing its status. Here are just a few of the legendary names who have performed, developed, or headlined at the club:

  • Michael McIntyre: One of the biggest arena-filling comedians in the UK, McIntyre honed his craft on the tough London circuit, including the Greenwich stage.
  • Jimmy Carr: Known for his dark wit and distinctive laugh, Carr is another major star who regularly performed at the club early in his career.
  • Jo Brand: A trailblazer in British comedy, Brand is one of the many influential figures who have been hosted by Up The Creek.
  • Dara Ó Briain: The Irish master of observational comedy and television host is among the "Greats" to have worked the room.
  • Flight of the Conchords: The musical comedy duo, Jemaine Clement and Bret McKenzie, were regulars at the club's "Sunday Special" show, performing long before their hit HBO series.
  • Daniel Kitson: The highly respected and famously independent comedian has a long association with the venue, often performing his unique, storytelling-based stand-up.
  • Stewart Lee: Though not a regular performer, Lee famously described founder Malcolm Hardee, connecting him to the club's legacy.
  • Mo Gilligan: A modern success story, Gilligan is currently featured in the club’s lineup with his "Comedy Brunch" in December 2025, showing the club’s continued relevance to contemporary stars.
  • Andrew Maxwell: The outspoken and energetic Irish comedian is another notable name who has played the venue.
  • Phil Nicol: An award-winning comedian who is part of the club's alumni list.
  • Sam Simmons: The surrealist Australian comic is known to have performed at the club.
  • Abigoliah Schamaun: Featured in the current December 2025 lineup, she represents the new generation of international talent the club continues to showcase.

What's On Now: Up-to-Date Events and Shows (December 2025)

The club's calendar for late 2025 demonstrates its commitment to a diverse and high-quality comedy offering. While the tough "The Blackout" runs every Thursday, the weekend schedule is packed with established, top-tier talent.

Key events running in December 2025 include:

  • The Blackout (Every Thursday): The famous open mic night where new talent is tested by the audience.
  • The Friday Night Show! A showcase of professional, established acts, perfect for starting the weekend.
  • Saturday Night Comedy - Up The Creek: The flagship weekend show, typically featuring a headline act and support from the UK stand-up circuit.
  • Mo Gilligan's Comedy Brunch: A special daytime event scheduled for December 13, 2025, highlighting the club's ability to host major, unique shows outside of its standard evening fare.
  • The Blackout - Abigoliah Schamaun: A specific showcase featuring the American-born comedian on December 18, 2025.
  • New Year's Eve: The club traditionally hosts a massive celebration to ring in the new year, continuing its tradition of high-energy events.

Whether you are a comedy tourist looking for a slice of history, a local looking for the best Saturday night out, or a talent scout hoping to spot the next Michael McIntyre, Up The Creek in Greenwich remains the essential destination. Its mix of legendary status, a brutal proving ground, and a consistently high-quality weekend lineup ensures its place as a cornerstone of the global comedy landscape.

12 Legendary Comedians Who Launched Their Careers at Up The Creek Comedy Club (And What's On Now in 2025)
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