They missed the chance to call it Witlike, but the joke was on everyone yesterday when Aberdeen’s first comedy festival got under way.
A whole host of stand-up comedians are set to descend on the city, with more than 250 acts performing over 23 days.
And last night, laughter proved to be the best medicine during a launch event at the city’s Tivoli Theatre.
Australian funnyman Tom Stade headlined the show, and was joined by Billy Kirkwood, Liam Withnail and Gary Little.
The festival has been organised by Aberdeen Inspired and Breakneck Comedy.
Adrian Watson, chief executive of Aberdeen Inspired, said: “We are delighted to launch the Aberdeen Comedy Festival, which we are sure we will be very well received by the public.
“Both Aberdeen Inspired and Breakneck Comedy have worked very hard to get to this point and it is fantastic now to be getting underway with events.
“At what continues to be a difficult time economically for the city, we are pleased to be bringing some laughs to Aberdeen with the aim of also increasing footfall within the centre.
“It has always been an ambition of ours to organise an event on this scale. We also know we need the backing of the north-east public, so we hope people take this opportunity to enjoy the great variety of comedy that will be on offer.”
There are more than 65 shows included in the line-up across about 20 different venues.
McGinty’s Meal An’ Ale is sponsoring the festival.
Alan Aitken, operations director of the popular eatery and bar, added: “As a local business, we are delighted to support the first Aberdeen Comedy Festival.
“It is great to be involved in a new initiative for the north-east and hopefully, this will encourage everyone to stay in the city centre to enjoy what our great city has to offer.
“We look forward to welcoming all the comedy lovers to McGinty’s on Tuesday October 18 when Andrea Hubbert, Marc Jennings, Mark Nelson and Elaine Millar will be performing a free event from 8.30pm.”
The festival runs until November 5.
For more information, visit www.aberdeencomedyfestival.com
