Comedy genius brings award-winning wit to Paignton

Paignton: A comedian called ‘Britain’s Funniest Joke Writer’ is coming to town. Mark Simmons will stop by on his 2026 tour. He won Dave’s Funniest Joke of the Fringe 2024. His show, Jest to Impress, is set for March 10, 2026, at the Palace Theatre.

Mark’s first tour, Quip Off the Mark, was a hit. It ran for three years and sold over 25,000 tickets. He performed at 215 shows across the UK, Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand. During this time, he won several awards, including the Joke of the Fringe Award.

Jest to Impress promises an hour of clever one-liners and spontaneous jokes. Mark will perform in larger venues this time, including the Hackney Empire and Brighton Corn Exchange. He’ll also visit Exeter and Plymouth in Devon.

Mark has appeared on popular shows like ITV’s Out There and Mock The Week. He also hosts a podcast called Jokes With Mark Simmons. In it, he chats with fellow comedians about jokes that didn’t quite land.

Critics have praised Mark’s performances, giving him four stars. The Evening Standard called him a “Master of the crisp, clean, one-line zinger.” Tickets for his show are £20 and can be bought online or by phone.