Our selection of London’s comedy gigs this week and to book ahead for.
Old Rope
Nick Doody's headlining Old Rope, a very popular weekly night where lots of comedians test out new material. Others firing out recently-written gags include Robin Ince, Rich Hall, Holly Walsh and Rob Deering. Head to the Phoenix pub, Cavendish Square, on 23 September. 7.30pm, £5.50.
Soho Theatre
There are three great shows by women starting this week at the Soho Theatre. Claudia O'Doherty's back with more unfathomable surrealism in Pioneer (23 September-5 October, 9.15pm, £10-£17.50); fellow Aussie Hannah Gadsby's telling you all about highs and lows and happiness (24-28 September, 9pm, £12.50 / £10); and American Jen Kirkman, who you may recognise from Funny or Die's Drunk History, has an hour of pure stand up (23-28 September, 9.30pm, £10-£17.50).
Always Be
James Acaster and Gemma Whelan in her Chastity Butterworth guise headline Always Be at The Rosendale in West Dulwich. Also on the bill are Phil Wang, Matt Winning and Funmbi. 26 September, 8pm, £7.70 / £8.
Knock2Bag
Experience Kim Noble, half of experimental comedy duo Noble and Silver, at Knock2Bag. You can also catch Simon Munnery, sketch duo The Pin, Edinburgh nominated Liam Williams, Oram and Meeten, Ed Gamble and Harriet Kemsley if you head to Rich Mix. 27 September, 7.30pm, £8.
Tasty Combo
This sketch group sold out their run at the Camden Fringe and now they're bringing their A-Z of Sketch to the Hen and Chickens. 28 September, 7.30pm, £8
David Baddiel
Advance notice for David Baddiel's four nights at the Southbank Centre, 29 October-1 November, with a new show about fame. £20, 8pm.
Tip us off to friendly, intelligent, alternative comedy around town [email protected], read our guide to watching live comedy in London and our top 10 themed comedy nights.