GenFest 2025: Dorothy and Her Very Many Friends – by Jude Taylor

“Just because you’re paranoid, doesn’t mean you’re NOT being followed” Dom Joly has been off travelling the globe again. This time, he’s been looking into some of the strangest and weirdest conspiracy theories in existence. Now, he’s set to embark on a rather unique theatre tour, where Dom will be providing a hilarious, fascinating, and slightly anarchic guide to the wacky world of conspiracies. Is the earth flat? Does Finland exist? Did JFK commit suicide? Are Q Anon mentally ill? Is Bill Gates using vaccines to take control of your mind? Is Denver Airport a massive panic room for the Illuminati? Are UFOs piloted by lizards? In the spirit of fairness, Dom will also be inviting a well-known and highly respected conspiracy theorist, Dr. Julian Northcote, to take the stage and defend the alternate view. Due to the extremely controversial views aired in the show, security will be at an optimum and audiences are warned that angry demonstrations are very likely – or is that just another conspiracy?!

South African-New Zealander Comedian, Urzila Carlson returns to tour the UK with her new show ‘Just Jokes’. Carlson has become one of the biggest names in comedy in Australia and New Zealand. Her new tour arrives hot on the heels of her 2023 sold-out UK tour, ‘It’s Personal‘. An undeniable tour de force of the comedy world, Urzila hasn’t stopped since taking to the comedy stage. She has sold out seasons in the UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Europe. A fan favourite on season 2 of Taskmaster NZ in New Zealand, now airing on Channel 4. In 2024, Urzila made her UK TV debut, appearing on QI. Later this year, she’ll make her mark in feature animation as the voice of Honkus in the film Ozi alongside Donald Sutherland, Laura Dern, Ru Paul, and Amandla Stenberg. Book early; this tour is a guaranteed sell-out!

During the First World War, over one million British Empire soldiers lost their lives, with around half of them still resting in unmarked graves today. John Nichol, a former RAF Tornado Navigator and Gulf War POW, embarks on a poignant journey to uncover the emotional tale of the Unknown Warrior interred in Westminster Abbey, highlighting our enduring need to honour and grieve for the fallen. Following the conflict, the concept of a single ‘Unknown Warrior’ emerged as a symbol to commemorate the missing and alleviate the overwhelming national sorrow. John retraces the Warrior’s path from the battlefields of Northern France to Westminster Abbey, engaging with descendants of those involved and delving into forgotten records. In this extraordinary theatrical production, enriched with evocative visuals and a stirring soundscape, audiences are transported back to this tumultuous era, experiencing the passion of those who came before us and the enduring pain of those who still walk among us.

Dr Louise Newson, leading medical expert on menopause and hormones, is embarking on her inaugural UK theatre tour accompanied by Dublin-based comedian Anne Gildea. “Hormones and Menopause – The Great Debate” aims to educate and challenge misconceptions about menopause and advocate for better healthcare for women. Described as “the medic who kick-started the menopause revolution”, Dr Louise has transformed the lives of hundreds of thousands of women and their families through her pioneering work as a GP and menopause specialist. Her advice on HRT, as well as lifestyle factors like exercise, diet, and sleep, has revolutionised the health and wellbeing of so many women. Known for her gut-busting, honest and informative comedy, Anne is a founding member of the iconic Irish musical-comedy trio, The Nualas. She will bring humour and a unique perspective, while Louise’s knowledge will allow women to make informed decisions about their health, whilst at the same time educating the rest of the family, including men. An evening of learning and laughter, the duo are set to captivate, educate and entertain.

Following SOLD-OUT performances in London’s West End, a Worldwide tour and standing ovations at every performance, The Simon & Garfunkel Story continues to stun audiences across the globe, making it a must-see international sensation. Using huge projection photos and original film footage, the international hit show also features a full live band performing all the hits including Mrs Robinson, Cecilia, Bridge Over Troubled Water, Homeward Bound and many more. Get your tickets fast as this is an evening not to be missed!