Returning for the sixth year, Dabbers Bingo Comedy Caller Contest is back with even more to offer for 2026 including a bigger £1500 cash prize for the winner and free tickets (including a free cocktail) for audiences thanks to brand new sponsor WhichBingo.
The semi finals take place on 3rd and 10th July at Dabber Social Bingo in Houndstitch ahead of the grand final on Friday 17th July. All shows are hosted by acclaimed musical comedian Katie Pritchard.
The eight effervescent rising stars of comedy and cabaret who have dazzled audiences and judges alike with their best bingo lingo to make it through to the semi finals are:
Nerine Skinner aka Sadie The Motivator
Nerine is an actress, comedian, improviser, writer. She was originally one half of comedy double act, Franks and Skinner. She then joined The Dots and they reached the semi-finals of BGT. Nerine also became known for her viral parody videos of Liz Truss online and sold out her debut show in Edinburgh in 2024.
Ben Pollard
Ben Pollard is a demonic twink who was sent to Earth to rock you! A So You Think You’re Funny, Musical Comedy Awards, and LGBTQ New Comedian of the Year finalist, Ben is “darkly funny” (Attitude) with a “very funny persona” (Chortle).
Kudzanayi Chiwawa
South London raised actor turned comedian. Having started at Soho Labs, Kudzanyi performs regularly on the comedy circuit as well as festivals such as FOC it up at SOHO theatre, and winning gong shows including Big Belly.
Paul Aitchison aka Klaus Fantastiche
Klaus Fantastiche the Wurst magician Character comedy magician and mind reader Headliner on many cruise ships inc Virgin and P&O. Act From comedy actor Paul Aitchison – (pleasance EICC sellout show – Radio4 Comedy writing and performing credits- DAVE peoples choice winners with his sketch act Mixed doubles- finalist SKETCH OFF, runner up Sketchfest)
Kathy Maniura aka Cycling Man
Middle-aged and newly single, The Cycling Man has spent the salary of an NHS nurse in Decathlon and he’s on the verge of a breakdown. One of the best reviewed shows of the Edinburgh Fringe 2025 and currently on a Tour de UK, inside him is award winning character comedian Kathy Maniura – Sketch Off winner 2020 and BBC New Comedian shortlisted 2023.
Rachel Baker aka Gwen
Rachel Baker is a stand up and character comedian who has been named Big Value Act 2026, Funny Women Finalist, and Birmingham Breaking Talent nominee. As her character Gwen, she has won the Luke Rollason sketch and character award and been a Sketch Off Finalist. Gwen is a lovable awful woman, who loves a dance. Guaranteed to get the energy sky high.
Tara Boland Aka Dusty Creases
Dusty Creases is a movement muse, choreographer and dancer who loves to dance more than Gwyneth Paltrow loves vagina candles. That’s a lot.
CJ Cabaret
Multi award winning comedy burlesque performer who also mc’s and does stand up comedy. Multi time gong show winner including the Comedy Stores ‘King Gong’.