Bringing some of the best comedy the North East has to offer
Bringing some of the best comedy the North East has to offer
As Jesticles Comedy Club prepares to bring belly laughs to Darlington, we’re taking a moment to celebrate our magnificent home venue – the historic Majestic Theatre. This architectural treasure has been entertaining locals for nearly a century, and we couldn’t be prouder to add to its legacy.
When the Majestic Theatre first opened its doors in 1932, King George V was on the throne, the BBC had just begun regular television broadcasts, and Darlington was a thriving railway town. The theatre was designed in the popular Art Deco style of the era, with geometric patterns, bold colours, and the glamorous touches that typified the Golden Age of cinema.
On opening night, excited moviegoers lined up around the block to experience this new entertainment palace. The first feature shown was reportedly “Grand Hotel” starring Greta Garbo and John Barrymore – quite fitting for such a grand venue!
The Majestic has witnessed incredible changes throughout its lifetime. During World War II, it became an important morale booster for the town, offering newsreels and escapist entertainment during dark times. In the swinging sixties, it adapted to changing tastes with more contemporary films, and in the 1970s, it briefly experimented with being a music venue, hosting several notable rock bands of the era.
By the 1980s, like many single-screen theaters, the Majestic faced challenges from multiplex cinemas. For a brief period in the early 1990s, it seemed the curtain might fall for good. But Darlington wasn’t ready to say goodbye to this beloved landmark.
A community campaign in the early 2000s saved the Majestic from potential demolition, and in 2008, a comprehensive restoration project breathed new life into the venue. The restoration team worked meticulously to preserve original features while modernizing the facilities.
Today’s visitors can still marvel at the ornate ceiling work, the vintage light fixtures, and the sweeping staircase in the foyer – all restored to their former glory. The theater’s acoustics, which were impressive even in 1932, have been enhanced with modern technology, making it an ideal venue for live performances.
Now, the Majestic is adding another act to its long-running show – as the home of Darlington’s newest and cheekiest comedy venture, Jesticles Comedy Club.
There’s something particularly fitting about comedy finding a home here. The theatre has always been a place where people come together to escape the ordinary and experience joy. From the silent film era to today’s stand-up comedians, the fundamental purpose hasn’t changed: bringing people together for shared moments of happiness.
The theatre’s intimate atmosphere creates the perfect setting for comedy. With 320 seats arranged in a way that there truly isn’t a bad view in the house, audiences can connect with performers in a way that’s impossible in larger venues. The slightly sloped floor means even if you’re sitting behind the tallest person in Darlington, you’ll still see every punchline coming.
For those who haven’t had the pleasure of attending a show at the Majestic, you’re in for a treat. Located centrally in Darlington, the venue is easily accessible by public transport and has ample parking nearby.
The bar serves a selection of local beers, wines, and spirits – perfect for settling those pre-show nerves if you’re sitting in the front row! While the seating is historic, it’s been re-upholstered for comfort, so you can laugh all night without getting an unwanted reminder of the theater’s age.
Jesticles Sunday Afternoon Comedy Club starting every last Sunday(ish) from October 2025 brings together the timeless charm of the Majestic with the freshest comedy talent the North East has to offer. For just £5 early bird, you’ll not only get to see brilliant comedians but you’ll also be participating in the next chapter of this historic venue’s story.
As the lights dim and the MC takes the stage, take a moment to look around at the gorgeous surroundings and think about the generations of Darlington residents who’ve sought entertainment within these same walls. Then prepare for something the original 1932 audience could never have imagined – a night of contemporary comedy that would have scandalised their grandparents!
The Majestic Theatre and Jesticles Comedy Club – continuing a 90-year tradition of giving Darlington nights to remember.
Tickets for our October show and other shows are on sale now – book early to avoid disappointment and secure your place in Darlington entertainment history!
