Is Connor Burns the Next Big Name in Comedy? Here's Why His Show "1994" Is Unmissable

If you haven’t heard of Connor Burns yet, it’s time to fix that. Scotland’s rising comedy star is about to reach Yorkshire with his latest hit show, 1994. With more than 40 dates across the UK and extra performances being added, Connor is proving why he’s one of the fastest-growing names in the comedy scene.

So, what’s the deal with 1994, and why should you care? Let’s break it down.

Who is Connor Burns?

Imagine a 30-year-old Scottish lad who’s equal parts charming and cheeky, with razor-sharp wit to boot. That’s Connor Burns in a nutshell. Over the past few years, he’s gone from an aspiring stand-up comedian to selling out shows at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, one of the biggest stages for comedy in the world.

In fact, his entire Fringe run in 2023 sold out just a week after the programme launched, and this year’s 1994 show followed suit, pulling in close to 8,000 ticket sales in his home city of Edinburgh alone. Not bad for a guy who started cracking jokes in small clubs just seven years ago.

What’s 1994 all about?

The title of the show, 1994, is a nod to the year Connor was born. It’s a mix of laugh-out-loud stories, sharp observations, and a sprinkle of nostalgia. He dives into how the world has changed since his parents’ generation and asks the big question: “Was everything actually better back in the day?”

Think of it like a comedy time machine. From barbershop banter to the highs and lows of supporting Scottish football, Connor serves up everyday moments with a hilarious twist. He doesn’t just poke fun at the past—he also takes aim at how pop culture has shaped (or warped!) our lives over the last 75 years.

Oh, and the soundtrack? Expect to hear chart-topping hits from past decades that’ll have you nodding along. It’s comedy, music, and nostalgia all rolled into one.

Why 1994 feels like a turning point

Connor’s latest show isn’t just another night of stand-up; it’s being described as a proper “coming-of-age” moment for him as a comedian. With a mix of self-deprecating humour and stories that hit close to home, he’s making his mark as an authentic voice in comedy.

Here’s how The Scotsman put it:

“Scottish working-class boy Connor Burns is selling out at the Fringe… Here is an authentic Scottish voice. And a gallus one at that… In short, Burns has arrived.”

That’s some high praise, but it doesn’t stop there. Critics have been raving about his timing, sharp writing, and ability to connect with audiences:

• ★★★★★ The Scotsman: “There is nothing he sets his comedic sights on that he misses.”
• ★★★★ Beyond the Joke: “His understated stage presence and superb comic timing see him land punchline after punchline perfectly.”
• ★★★★ The List: “Brilliant… gags coming at you at a terrifying rate.”

From the Fringe to the world

Connor isn’t just staying local. Alongside his UK tour, he’ll also be hitting Europe in 2024 and heading down under to Australia in 2025. Oh, and did we mention he’s performed in legendary venues like the Sydney Opera House and taped a set for Just For Laughs?

He’s even opened for big names like Daniel Sloss in the UK, Australia, and the New York Comedy Festival, as well as Larry Dean. Not bad company, eh?

Where can you catch him?

Connor’s 1994 tour kicked off in October 2024 and runs through to 28 March 2025, with stops including Barnard Castle and Leeds. A few highlights:

Tour Listings: 

11 October 2024           Paisley                         Paisley Arts

12 October 2024           Dundee                        Dundee Rep

22 January 2025           Cardiff                          Glee

23 January 2025           Guildford                      G Live Studio

29 January 2025           Inverness                      Eden Court

30 January 2025           Stirling                          Tollbooth Auditorium

31 January 2025           Perth                            Theatre

01 February 2025          Aberdeen                      Music Hall

02 February 2025          Edinburgh                     Lyceum

05 February 2025          Hexham                        Library

06 February 2025          Leeds                           Old Woollen

07 February 2025          Barnard Castle              The Witham

08 February 2025          Darwen                         Library Theatre

12 February 2025          Corby                           Cube

13 February 2025          Leicester                      Big Difference

14 February 2025          Nottingham                   Just The Tonic

15 February 2025          Darlington                     Hullabaloo

16 February 2025          Salford                         The Lowry Studio

19 February 2025          Norwich                        Arts Centre

20 February 2025          Bristol                           Hen and Chickens

21 February 2025          Swindon                       Arts Centre

22 February 2025          Poole                           Lighthouse Studio

23 February 2025          Brighton                        The Forge

27 February 2025          Luton                            Hat Factory

28 February 2025          Hemel Hempstead        Old Town Hall

01 March 2025              Cambridge                    Junction

02 March 2025              Birmingham                  Glee

05 March 2025              Fareham                       Studio One

06 March 2025              Aylesbury                     Waterside Studio

12 March 2025              Carlisle                         Old Fire Station

13 March 2025              Newcastle                     The Stand

14 March 2025              Glasgow                       King's Theatre

15 March 2025              Glasgow                       King's Theatre

28 March 2025              Kircaldy                        Adam Smith

Why You Should Go

Whether you’re a die-hard comedy fan or just looking for a good laugh, 1994 promises to be one of those shows you’ll be bragging about seeing before Connor Burns becomes a household name.

Between his quick-witted gags, nostalgic throwbacks, and moments that’ll make you go, “That’s so true!”—it’s no wonder critics are calling him “the next big comedy act out of Scotland.”

Don’t just take our word for it—grab your tickets at connor-burns.com before they’re gone. And while you’re at it, check him out on Instagram (@connorburnscomedy) or TikTok for a sneak peek of what’s in store.

Trust us, this is one show you don’t want to miss.