New brewery is having a laugh

Edinburgh comedy stalwarts The Gilded Balloon — responsible for multiple Fringe venues, and the big name acts who settle into them throughout the month of August — are branching out west with a new comedy club, hosted in collaboration with the east end’s latest hip happening spot, Drygate Brewing Co.

Two three act shows will run 7.30-9.30pm and 10pm-midnight every Friday, with Zoe Lyons, Micky Dwyer, Ray Bradshaw and Scott Agnew stepping up to compere.

Curated by the Balloon’s artistic director Karen Koren, future line-ups include Rob Rouse, Mark Nelson, Romesh Ranganthan and Felicity Ward, all hoping to tickle a few funny bones between pints.

The first, taking place next Friday (August 29), features John Hastings, Chris Forbes, Vladimir McTavish and Scott Agnew at the helm.

And, if you’re in the mood for a something more substantial of a Friday night out, show tickets are available with dinner packages attached, allowing for a pre or post-show meal.

The Extra has yet to sample the food at Drygate restaurant The Vintage - but, having previewed the place on our Eating Out page and raved about the craft brews, a comedy night with The Gilded Balloon’s golden touch can only add to the venue’s many charms.

Tickets start at £15, from www.gildedballoon.co.uk or www.drygate.com.