Scotland’s fast-rising comedy sensation Connor Burns is set to embark on a nationwide tour with his critically acclaimed show, ‘1994,’ starting in October 2024.
Following a triumphant run at the 2024 Edinburgh Fringe, where the show quickly sold out, Burns is bringing his sharp observational humour and nostalgic reflections to audiences across the UK.
A comedian on the rise
Over the last few years, Connor Burns has rapidly ascended the comedy ranks, gaining recognition for his unique voice and relatable, down-to-earth style. After the overwhelming success of his previous shows, including the sold-out 2022 Fringe run, Burns solidified his status as a rising star during the 2023 Fringe, selling out his entire run within a week.
His 2024 show, ‘1994,’ continued this momentum, with extra performances added to meet the high demand in Edinburgh, where he performed to nearly 8,000 fans.
The premise of ‘1994’
‘1994’ is a reflection on how the world has changed since the year of Burns’ birth. Through a mix of witty one-liners, engaging anecdotes, and nostalgic nods to the music and culture of the past, Burns explores whether life was truly better in the ‘good old days.’ The show delves into how pop culture, starting from the 1950s, has shaped societal perceptions over the last seven decades.
Connor Burns: from aspiring comedian to hometown hero
In just seven years, Connor Burns has transformed from an aspiring comedian to a celebrated performer in his hometown of Edinburgh and beyond. ‘1994’ marks his third solo show and represents a significant milestone in his career—a coming-of-age moment for a comedian who continues to captivate audiences with his sharp observations and self-deprecating humour.
Burns’ ability to find comedy in the mundane, from visits to the barber to the trials of supporting Scottish football, has made him a favourite among audiences and critics alike. His latest work, ‘1994,’ combines these relatable themes with a nostalgic look back at how society has evolved since his birth, all set to the soundtrack of chart-topping hits from previous decades.
A glimpse at the future
In addition to his solo touring, Connor Burns has also gained experience supporting some of the biggest names in comedy. He has opened for Larry Dean in the UK and toured with Daniel Sloss in the UK, Australia, and at the New York Comedy Festival in 2023. Burns has also graced the stage of the Sydney Opera House, closing the Sydney Comedy Festival Gala, and performed at Just For Laughs in Montreal.
Looking ahead, Burns is set to tour extensively in 2024 and 2025, with over 40 dates across the UK and additional performances planned in Europe and Australia. His previous special, ‘Vertigo,’ was recently filmed for release, further solidifying his growing influence in the comedy world.
Upcoming tour dates
Connor Burns’ ‘1994’ tour kicks off in October 2024 and will visit numerous cities across the UK. Tickets go on sale from 23 August 2024, with some dates available from the week commencing 26 August.
- 11 October 2024 – Paisley Arts, Paisley
- 12 October 2024 – Dundee Rep, Dundee
- 22 January 2025 – Glee, Cardiff
- 23 January 2025 – G Live Studio, Guildford*
- 29 January 2025 – Eden Court, Inverness
- 30 January 2025 – Tollbooth Auditorium, Stirling
- 31 January 2025 – Theatre, Perth
- 01 February 2025 – Music Hall, Aberdeen
- 02 February 2025 – Lyceum, Edinburgh
- 05 February 2025 – Library, Hexham
- 06 February 2025 – Old Woollen, Leeds
- 07 February 2025 – The Witham, Barnard Castle*
- 08 February 2025 – Library Theatre, Darwen
- 12 February 2025 – Cube, Corby
- 13 February 2025 – Big Difference, Leicester
- 14 February 2025 – Just The Tonic, Nottingham
- 15 February 2025 – Hullabaloo, Darlington*
- 16 February 2025 – The Lowry Studio, Salford
- 19 February 2025 – Arts Centre, Norwich
- 20 February 2025 – Hen and Chickens, Bristol
- 21 February 2025 – Arts Centre, Swindon
- 22 February 2025 – Lighthouse Studio, Poole
- 23 February 2025 – The Forge, Brighton
- 27 February 2025 – Hat Factory, Luton
- 28 February 2025 – Old Town Hall, Hemel Hempstead
- 01 March 2025 – Junction, Cambridge
- 02 March 2025 – Glee, Birmingham
- 05 March 2025 – Studio One, Fareham*
- 06 March 2025 – Waterside Studio, Aylesbury*
- 12 March 2025 – Old Fire Station, Carlisle
- 13 March 2025 – The Stand, Newcastle
- 14 March 2025 – King’s Theatre, Glasgow*
- 15 March 2025 – King’s Theatre, Glasgow*
- 28 March 2025 – Adam Smith, Kircaldy
(*Tickets on sale from w/c 26 August)
For tickets and more information, visit www.connor-burns.com.
What critics are saying
Connor Burns has received widespread acclaim for his sharp comedic timing, relatable humour, and fearless approach to tackling everyday life. Here’s what the critics have to say:
- Daily Record:
“Just like seeing your favourite band for the first time, being at a stand-up show when you know they are about to hit the big time is an equally big thrill…. And this Edinburgh Festival Fringe will be the chance to have that feeling watching local boy Connor Burns become the next big comedy act out of Scotland.”
- The Scotsman:
“There is a great comedy talent at work here… There is nothing he sets his comedic sights on that he misses… he is fearless and it is wonderful… hilarious!”
- The List:
“Brilliant… gags coming at you at a terrifying rate.”
- Beyond the Joke:
“Connor clearly has a brilliant comedy mind and he is already a hugely gifted stand-up. His understated stage presence and superb comic timing see him land punchline after punchline perfectly, and some sneaky set-ups for future callbacks are a delight when they reveal themselves… Impressive!”
With such strong endorsements and a rapidly growing fan base, Connor Burns is undoubtedly a comedian to watch as he continues his meteoric rise in the world of stand-up comedy.
