Beloved Kettering comic James Acaster is coming to Leeds city centre for a 'very special' new show later this year.
The increasingly well-known stand-up — who first found fame on the UK circuit, landing a spot on Mock the Week, before going on to appear on a number of other panel shows and the likes of Taskmaster — is now back with a touring set.
Acaster was long considered one of the new boys of the British comedy scene, but the 40-year-old has actually been at this a long ol' while now, first taking to the stage way back in 2008. Time flies when you're being funny.
Fast forward to 2025, and Acaster now co-hosts the hit comedy podcast Off Menu with fellow punny peer, Ed Gamble, and even features in the most recent Ghostbusters film. All that being said, seeing him in such an intimate setting is a big deal.
James Acaster will be coming to the recently opened Glee Club Leeds this autumn for what the venue has explained will be a special work-in-progress gig.
Not only does this mean that the Hypothetical star will be working out some fresh material for what we can only assume is his latest special (fingers crossed), but those in the audience may also hear jokes never before told - and perhaps never again.
With five Chortle Awards, a Just for Laughs Award and 'Most Outstanding Show' at the 2019 International Comedy Festival in Melbourne and New Zealand for his critically acclaimed Cold Lasagne Hate Myself 1999, we'd wager it'll be pretty funny.
There is something very cool about being in the room as a performer works out the kinks of a new hour, especially when you know it might potentially never be seen in that particular form ever again.
So, it's no surprise then that the clamour for these tickets will and already IS very high.
Here's a taster from his legendary ode to cold lasagne.
In fact, the demand has been so "phenomenal" since the set was announced that The Glee Club's exclusive pre-sale window via their mailing list sold out in record time.
Nevertheless, there's still plenty of chance to grab a ticket to see him inside the 400-capacity room on Albion Street on Wednesday, 22 October.
General admission goes live this Friday, 27 June at 10am and you can get ready to grab your tickets for James Acaster in Leeds HERE.
David Hockney, one of Britain's most influential and recognisable artists, has sadly died.
Born in Bradford in 1937, David Hockney built a career spanning more than six decades and became one of the most influential figures in contemporary art.
He was best known for his vibrant paintings, from the iconic swimming pools of Los Angeles to the sweeping landscapes of Yorkshire and Normandy.
And of course you can't forget the adorable paintings of his sausage dogs Stanley and Boodgie.
This morning on Friday 12 June, it was sadly announced that David Hockney had passed away - just one month prior of his 89th birthday.
Admired by critics and the public alike, Hockney's work was exhibited around the world and attracted record-breaking prices, cementing his place as one of the defining artists of the modern era.
Most recently, his incredibly immersive exhibition 'Bigger & Closer (not smaller & further away)' was a hit across the country, proving his work still resonated with the people of today.
His work at Salts Mill has remained in exhibit for years, including his special digital drawings that he did on his iPad.
His death marks the end of a truly extraordinary career, but his influence on British culture and contemporary art will endure for years to come.
A true West Yorkshire icon that will be missed by many from across the globe. RIP David.
Featured image - Publicity photo via Justin Sutcliffe (supplied)
Art & Culture
A breathtaking giant sculpture of the sun has arrived in Yorkshire for the summer
Clementine Hall
A giant model of the sun is now illuminated in Wakefield.
The sun has arrived in Wakefield… and we’re not just referring to that one that’s popped up in the sky at long last (sort of).
We’re taking about Helios, the amazing art installation that’s about to stop off at Wakefield Exchange as it tours around the UK.
Created by renowned artist, Luke Jerram, the beautiful art piece measures a whopping seven-metres in diameter and has been created using images captured by NASA.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Helios builds on the success of Luke Jerram’s previous installations in Wakefield, including the hugely popular Museum of the Moon.
With its striking scale and rich scientific detail,the artwork provides a safe and captivating way to encounter the Sun up close, highlighting everything from solar flares to the phenomena that created the unforgettable Northern Lights visible across the UK in 2024.
Stepping beneath the breathtaking glowing sculpture, audiences can experience an atmospheric fusion of solar imagery, sunlight and a specially commissioned surround‑sound composition that brings the science and mystery of our nearest star vividly to life.
Alongside the striking sun instillation, Wakefield Exchange will present a full programme of free, family‑friendly, space‑themed activities throughout the summer.
Visitors can enjoy hands‑on workshops, creative crafts, dressing‑up sessions and playful drop‑in experiences.
Helios will be hosted by Wakefield Exchange from Friday 12 June until Sunday 6 September 2026, and you can find out more here on their website.
Danny Jones -
24th June 2025 
