The Driftwood Spars, in St Agnes, Cornwall, is to host its inaugural Barrel of Laughs Beer Festival next month, with comedians, live music, and beer from some of the UK’s best small breweries.
Entry to the festival itself (including most of the music performances) is non-ticketed and free. Everything will take place within the historic coastal brewpub, although they’ll be the opportunity to enjoy food and drink outside if the weather plays ball.
The event — from 10th to 12th March — kicks off with a free comedy jam on the Friday from 6pm to 7.30pm. Local comedians will try out new material or simply enjoy some stage time in front of a friendly audience.
The main comedy acts will take place in the sea-facing bistro throughout the weekend. For these, tickets are being sold in advance, or on the day until capacity is reached.
Britain’s Got Talent runner-up, 23-year-old Jack Carroll, is the comedy headliner of the festival, performing on both the Friday and Saturday. The Pride of Britain award winner starred in Trollied on Sky One, the 2018 film Eaten by Lions, and has previously appeared on Live at The Apollo.
On Sunday, Kernow King and support acts will close the event. Tickets have already sold out for this, and the other performances are expected to follow suit.
The music line-up features rock and blues cover band blueStealers, Hedluv and Passman (a ticketed event priced at £7, including a pint), and True Collison. There will be an open mic session on Sunday at 5pm following the Six Nations match between Ireland and Scotland.
Driftwood Spars owner, Louise Treseder, said: “This is perhaps our most exciting festival line-up yet, and the first time we’ve incorporated comedy as part of the schedule. There’s loads going on across all three days, plus we’ll be showing the Six Nations rugby matches for anyone who doesn’t want to miss out!”
Head brewer, Mike Mason, added: “We’re really excited about the selection for Barrel of Laughs, which features beers from some of our favourite breweries from across the UK. This is a brilliant opportunity to try some of the finest hand-crafted brews around.
“We’re particularly excited to welcome Small Beer Brew Co to the line-up, a B Corp brewery which specialises in big flavour, low-alcohol beers.”
Driftwood Spars will also be celebrating the arrival of its own new beer, Sea Shanty, at the festival. Louise said: “Sea Shanty is the first new addition to our core range for over five years, and we’re really excited to properly unleash it at Barrel of Laughs.
“The light pale ale, with subtle tropical notes, is the perfect session ale for spring — and what better excuse for a session than a pint-sized festival of music and comedy on the Cornish coast!”
• For more info or tickets to music and comedy performances, visit driftwoodspars.co.uk/
