Dead Ringers: The 25th Anniversary Tour Extension

Ever listen to the radio or watch the news and think the people in charge sound a bit bonkers? Well, for 25 years, one show has been brilliant at pointing that out and making it funny. The legendary BBC Radio 4 show, Dead Ringers, is celebrating its massive 25th anniversary, and because so many people want to see them, they’ve added a whole bunch of new dates to their first-ever UK tour. This isn't just any comedy show; it's a masterclass in impressions and sharp satire that has become a staple of British entertainment. The tour extension is a chance for even more people to experience the magic live on stage, a real treat for long-time fans and newcomers alike.

So what’s the big deal about this tour?

Imagine being able to perfectly mimic the voice of the Prime Minister, a famous newsreader, or your favourite TV star. Now imagine writing hilarious sketches for them. That’s what the team behind Dead Ringers does best. For a quarter of a century, they’ve been the go-to source for topical comedy and biting satire, taking aim at politics and celebrity culture. And now, for their 25th anniversary, they're bringing the whole thing to a theatre near you. The live tour brings together the original cast members who have made the show so famous: Jon Culshaw, Jan Ravens, Lewis Macleod, and Duncan Wisbey. This tour extension proves just how popular their unique brand of comedy is, with new shows added in major cities from Birmingham to Glasgow. Audiences can expect a journey through 25 years of classic sketches, uncanny impressions, and the kind of up-to-the-minute cultural satire that has kept the show at the top of its game. It’s a proper night out for anyone who loves a good laugh and clever commentary. The show is presented by Fiery Entertainment in association with BBC Studios, ensuring a high-quality production.

A special tribute to a comedy genius

This tour isn't just a celebration; it's also a heartfelt tribute. The show’s creator and producer, the legendary Bill Dare, passed away suddenly in March, and the entire tour is dedicated to his memory. Bill Dare was a giant in the world of TV and radio comedy. Think of shows like Spitting Image or The Mary Whitehouse Experience – he was a creator and driving force behind them. He had a knack for finding the funny in everyday life and politics, and Dead Ringers was one of his greatest successes. The cast and crew are using this tour to honour his incredible contribution to British comedy. For them, it’s a chance to celebrate the work of a man who helped shape the landscape of satire in the UK. This tribute adds a poignant layer to the entertainment, reminding everyone of the brilliant mind that started it all.

Meet the voices behind the laughs

The magic of Dead Ringers comes from its incredibly talented cast, a group of performers who are masters of their craft. They don’t just do voices; they capture the whole person.

• Jon Culshaw: Often called Britain's best impressionist, Jon Culshaw is a household name. His impressions are so spot-on it's sometimes hard to tell the difference between him and the real person. Beyond Dead Ringers, people will know him from shows like Spitting Image and The Impressions Show. He’s a true star of comedy.

• Jan Ravens: A regular voice on BBC Radio 4, Jan Ravens is famous for her sharp-witted impressions of prominent female figures. She’s not just a comedian; she’s an accomplished actor and has even won Mastermind! Her incredible talent makes her a cornerstone of the Dead Ringers team.

• Lewis Macleod: A man of a thousand voices, Lewis Macleod has been in everything from Star Wars (as Sebulba!) to being the voice of Postman Pat. His range is astonishing, and his work on Dead Ringers showcases his brilliant mimicry and comedy timing. He's a veteran of satire, also known for his work on Spitting Image.

• Duncan Wisbey: With a huge list of credits across radio, TV, and even the Royal Shakespeare Company, Duncan Wisbey is an incredibly versatile performer. His ability to switch between characters and voices is a key part of the show's success, making him an essential part of the legendary ensemble.

Is it just the radio show on stage?

Not at all! While the Dead Ringers radio show is set to return to BBC Radio 4 in June, this tour is something completely different. It's a special, one-of-a-kind live experience that will not be for broadcast. That means the jokes, the sketches, and the general mischief you see on stage are for the live audience only. It gives the performers a bit more freedom and makes the night feel exclusive. You're getting a unique slice of entertainment that you won't hear on the radio later. This is your only chance to see this specific celebration of their 25th anniversary, a comedy event packed with live energy.

Previous live shows have been a huge hit with critics, who have called the show:

‘Gorgeously funny’ ** - The Times

‘Thoroughly entertaining’ ** - Theatre Weekly

‘Hilarious, clever, and inventive’ ** - Broadway World

Where and when to catch the tour extension

The tour extension kicks off on 27th January and visits towns and cities across the country. The tour comes to Yorkshire on Thursday 29th January 2026. Check out the full list of new dates below.

• 27 Jan – Guildford, G Live

• 28 Jan – Birmingham, Symphony Hall

• 29 Jan – Bradford, Live

• 30 Jan – Liverpool, Philharmonic

• 31 Jan – Swansea, Arena

• 01 Feb – Norwich, Theatre Royal

• 02 Feb – London, Palladium

• 01 Mar – Cardiff, New Theatre

• 06 Mar – Glasgow, Royal Concert Hall

• 10 Mar – Basingstoke, Anvil

• 11 Mar – Leicester, De Montfort Hall

• 14 Mar – Dartford, Orchard West

• 15 Mar – Southend, Cliffs Pavilion

• 16 Mar – Cambridge, Corn Exchange

• 21 Mar – Bath, The Forum

• 22 Mar – Milton Keynes, Theatre

• 23 Mar – Wolverhampton, Grand

• 24 Mar – Ipswich, Regent

• 25 Mar – Woking, New Victoria Theatre

• 26 Mar – Northampton, Derngate